info@mhwslegal.com  2001 22nd St. Suite 100, Bakersfield CA

About Us

History of Our Firm

Founded in 1978 by Gene McMurtrey. McMurtrey, Hartstock, Worth & St. Lawrence has continuously provided legal services to public agencies and small businesses since its inception. Throughout his career Mr. McMurtrey served as general counsel to several Kern County water districts and is a recognized expert in Water Law and related subjects. After over 48 years of service, Mr. McMurtrey retired at the end of 2018, but not before creating a locally renown law firm with a family like atmosphere. Stability accurately describes MHWS and the other partners exemplify this. Robert Hartsock began practicing with the firm in 1985, and while retiring at the end of 2022, he still serves as “of counsel” to the firm. The two partners, Jim Worth and Isaac St. Lawrence have been with the firm over 32 years and 16 years respectively. This longevity has resulted in unique expertise and the ability to efficiently and effectively meet clients’ legal needs.

Building strong relationships with clients to fully achieve their goals is paramount to the practice of law for McMurtrey, Hartsock, Worth & St. Lawrence and our client list is a testimony to this fact. Our firm has served as general legal counsel for Buena Vista Water Storage District and Indian Wells Valley Water District for over 35 years and for Oildale Mutual Water Company, Cawelo Water District, and Henry Miller Water District, to name a few, for over 20 years. This history of this firm is intertwined with water and small business within the central valley of California.
Our Attorneys

Need a Lawyer?
We Can Help

Name(Required)