1. How does the Office of the County Counsel affect me?
The County Counsel’s Office provides the County with an efficient, cost-effective method of obtaining legal services for the protection of its programs, departments, agencies, and financial resources. County residents benefit from the reduced expense in litigation and legal advice, as well as from the attorneys’ in-depth knowledge of County affairs.
2. I have received a notice to report for jury duty, but cannot attend. Can I reschedule my jury duty obligation through the County Counsel’s Office?
Jury duty matters are handled only by the court. All inquiries should be made directly to the Jury Division.
3. I was issued a traffic ticket, but have not been notified of the hearing by mail. Can you tell me when my hearing is scheduled?
Questions regarding traffic violations can only be answered by the Traffic Court.
4. Can I schedule a mental health appointment with the County Counsel's Office?
Although the name, "Counsel", sounds similar to mental health "counseling", this office is not in the business of providing psychiatric aid. To obtain a referral for counseling, please contact the Santa Clara County Department of Mental Health Services.
5. Can the County Counsel's Office get me a copy of a birth, death, or marriage certificate?
No. Records of births, deaths, or marriages are maintained by the County Clerk-Recorder's Office. Copies of these documents can be obtained by contacting this office directly.
6. Can the County Counsel's Office help me get an appointment to visit someone in the jail?
Appointments to visit inmates can only be scheduled through the Department of Correction.
7. Can the County Counsel’s Office help me obtain a domestic violence restraining order?
The County Counsel’s Office only represents County agencies and the Board of Supervisors, and does not provide legal services to members of the public. Listed below are some links to legal agencies that may be able to assist in a domestic violence situation:
To report suspected Child Abuse, call the Child Abuse Hotline at 408-299-2071.
In addition, you can also call 2-1-1 or go to www.211scc.org for a referral to health and human services.
8. Does the County Counsel’s Office have a form available for filing a claim against the County?
The Office of the Clerk of the Board has information on the filing of claims. You can contact them at 408-299-5001.
9. Does the County Counsel provide legal service to the public?
No. The County Counsel cannot provide legal services to the public. This office was established to provide specialized legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors, elected officials, and County employees in all legal matters affecting the departments and agencies that constitute County government. If you are in need of legal advice, the Santa Clara County Bar Association has a Lawyer Referral Service available to help in locating a qualified attorney.
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