The Justice, Employment & Health Team (JEHT) is a dedicated group of legal professionals committed to supporting the people and programs of Tulare County. Led by Chief Deputy Diana L. Mendez, the team includes four Deputy County Counsels, a Legal Services Specialist, two Paralegals, and valued members of the Administrative Team.
JEHT plays a pivotal role in advising all County departments on complex labor and employment matters, while also delivering comprehensive legal services to key agencies including the Health & Human Services Agency, Human Resources & Development, Risk Management, and the Justice Departments—District Attorney, Child Support Services, Probation, Public Defender, and the Sheriff's Department. The team collaborates closely with Risk Management on critical employment-related issues such as workers' compensation, medical accommodations, and OSHA compliance, ensuring the County remains both legally sound and employee-focused.
In addition to department support, JEHT provides legal counsel to several boards and committees that shape local policy and services, including the Defined Contribution Committee, the Task Force on Homelessness, the San Joaquin Valley Insurance Authority, and the Grand Jury.