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Reviewed October 1, 2026

Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance (GBLA)

Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance provides free civil legal services for low-income and elderly people in Kern County. Contact intake to ask whether it can help with your particular matter.

Who can apply

['GBLA serves low-income and elderly Kern County residents. The organization must assess your case and service eligibility; a request does not guarantee representation.']

What help is available

Its service areas include housing matters and public benefits. The housing work includes a Landlord-Tenant Assistance Center in the metropolitan Bakersfield courthouse.

Documents to prepare

Have notices, court documents and the names of the parties ready. State any hearing or response deadline immediately. Ask intake what financial evidence is needed before sending sensitive records.

How to get started

Call 661-325-5943 and request intake information. Review GBLA’s services to identify the relevant unit.

After applying

Clarify whether you are receiving advice, document assistance or representation. Keep tracking deadlines until someone explicitly accepts responsibility for a filing. Ask for another referral if your matter cannot be accepted.

Website screenshots

These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.

The GBLA services page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The GBLA contact page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Does GBLA handle criminal defense?

Its published mission covers civil legal services; ask for an appropriate referral for other matters.

Can it help with a benefit denial?

GBLA lists Social Security and public benefit-related assistance; ask intake about your notice.

Is submitting a request representation?

No. Confirm whether the organization accepts your case.

What if I have an eviction hearing soon?

Tell intake the date immediately and continue following court instructions.

Sources and review

Historical screenshots: source reference.