Kern County District Attorney

The Office of the Kern County District Attorney employs more than 90 attorneys in addition to Investigators, Assistants, and Crime Lab staff. The office is centered in Bakersfield, the county seat, with branch offices located throughout the Kern County. The District Attorney is the chief law enforcement officer of the county and is responsible for the prosecution of tens of thousands of criminal cases every year, in addition to civil and environmental enforcement actions. As Bakersfield's reasonable housing prices and proximity to the best of what California has to offer continues to spur growth and draw new residents, the District Attorney's Office has adapted to service the needs of a growing community. With specialized divisions of attorneys for homicides, gang-related crimes, domestic and sexual violence, DUI cases, and crimes occurring in California's prisons, the Kern County District Attorney continues to adapt to effectively promote public safety and defend victims' rights. With a new District Attorney taking office in January, 2019, applicants for attorney positions selected for interviews can expect a professional interview process with a panel of attorneys, a competitive salary, and an abundance of opportunities to represent the People of California in jury trials. Hiring opportunities usually occur several times each year as the need arises, and prospective applicants can sign up through the Kern County Human Resources page to be notified when new application periods are opened. Working at the Kern County District Attorney's Office allows opportunity for career advancement, specialized unit assignment, and trial experience in an environment that rewards dedication to public service and public safety.