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Civil Grand Jury

Civil Grand Jury

The Civil Grand Jury is convened by the court to investigate local government for the purpose of ensuring that public agencies are working in the best interest of the public, and are doing so effectively and economically. Its independence gives the Grand Jury a unique role in securing local government accountability.

Apply to Become a Civil Grand Juror

The Court is recruiting for the 2023-2024 Civil Grand Jury.

Civil Grand Jury Information:

HOW TO BECOME A GRAND JUROR

Applications for Grand Jury service are accepted throughout the year.  Official recruitment begins in January and final selection of the jury takes place at a public hearing shortly before July 1st of each year.  Grand Jurors serve for one fiscal year (July 1 through June 30).  The process starts with Superior Court judges interviewing applicants who meet the basic qualifications. The court has the responsibility to select 30 finalists divided among the county’s supervisorial districts.  During the final selection hearing, the names of the 30 finalists are placed in a selection bin.  The Presiding Judge can hold over up to ten jurors to serve a second term, and once those holdover jurors are chosen, the remaining slots are filed by random selection from the 30 finalists to make up a panel of 19 jurors total.

The qualifications to become a grand juror require (CA Penal code 893):
  • Citizen of the United States at least 18 years of age;
  • Residence in Alameda County for at least one year;
  • Ordinary intelligence, sound judgement, and good character;
  • Sufficient knowledge of the English language.
A person may not serve if any of the following apply:
  • The person is serving as a trial juror in any court of this state;
  • The person has been discharged as a Grand Juror in any court of this state within one year;
  • The person has been convicted of malfeasance in office or any felony or other high crime; or
  • The person is serving as an elected public officer.

Persons selected for Grand Jury service must make a significant time commitment for a period of one fiscal year.  The jury typically meets on Wednesdays and Thursdays (in Oakland) but most grand jurors devote additional time to their service.

Soon after the selection process, empaneled grand jurors receive a month long orientation on local government and must complete a statement of economic interests (FPPC Form 700). Grand jurors are provided training and support throughout their service.  They must be willing to participate in questioning witnesses, reading and analyzing investigative materials, and in writing their final reports.  Grand jurors are paid $15 per day plus mileage and/or public transportation reimbursement.

Selection Timeline
  • May 5: Juror applications due for term starting in July.
  • Mid-May: Zoom informational meeting - all applicants may be required to attend.
  • May 15 to June 1: Applicant interviews with Judicial Panel.
  • Mid-June: 30 finalists announced (chosen by Judicial Panel and Presiding Judge).
  • Late June: Formal selection hearing (19 jurors chosen for term starting July 1).

Juror Demographics

Jury demographics are important and help to maintain a system that is fair and equitable to all who choose to embark on the endeavor, and provides open and transparent information to the public about the applicant pool.

 

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