Bakersfield Will Host Record Expungement Clinics
The Kern County Public Defender's Office will launch free sessions to help residents clear criminal records.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Criminal Justice
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The Kern County Public Defender's Office will host a series of free record expungement clinics starting on October 28, 2026. These sessions are designed to help eligible residents clear their criminal records.
Why it matters
The program aims to assist individuals by removing significant barriers to employment and housing opportunities. By providing accessible legal support, officials hope to help residents achieve a fresh start.
The initial clinic, titled Clean Out Those Skeletons, is scheduled for October 28 from 10 a.m. to noon at 1315 Truxtun Ave. Additional sessions will follow in November and December.
The players
Claire Jenkins
She is a Deputy Public Defender who is coordinating the expungement clinics.
Johanna Romero
She is a senior investigator who is helping to organize the clinics for residents.
Kern County Public Defender's Office
This local agency provides legal representation for individuals who cannot afford an attorney.
The details
Local officials, including Deputy Public Defender Claire Jenkins and senior investigator Johanna Romero, are volunteering to coordinate the clinics and connect residents to services. The initiative features themed events, including November's "Something to Be Thankful For: A Fresh Start" and December's "Give Yourself the Gift of a Fresh Start."
Timeline
The first clinic will be held on October 28, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon.
A second clinic is scheduled for November 2026.
A final clinic is scheduled for December 2026.
Legal Context
These efforts follow a pattern set by California Senate Bill 731 to modernize record sealing. The clinics serve as a direct application of ongoing legislative trends in California to reduce barriers for formerly justice-involved residents.
Residents seeking to clear their records can attend the clinic at 1315 Truxtun Ave to receive guidance from officials. These services provide a pragmatic path to removing obstacles that often impede personal housing and job stability.
The takeaway
Expungement clinics provide a valuable opportunity for community members to navigate complex legal processes for free. Residents should prepare by identifying relevant dates and attending the scheduled sessions in person.
Further reading
For more information on legal programs and support, visit the Criminal Justice section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KGET 17.
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Should local governments proactively provide free services to help residents expunge their criminal records?
