Volunteer - Civil Grand Juror at Superior Court of Santa Cruz County – Santa Cruz, California

Grand Juror Position Overview: As a Civil Grand Juror, you will be part of an independent, judicial body responsible for overseeing the operations of city and county governments, including special districts and joint power agencies, within Santa Cruz County. The Grand Jury serves as an impartial ombudsman for the citizens, conducting investigations, evaluating government practices, and publishing findings and recommendations to enhance transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness in local governance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Investigate Government Operations: Review and assess the operations, procedures, and systems used by city, county, and special district agencies to ensure compliance with their objectives and to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Initiate Independent Inquiries: Initiate investigations into any aspect of county or city government, focusing on areas that can benefit the public interest of Santa Cruz County residents.
• Publish Findings and Recommendations: Compile investigative reports with recommendations aimed at improving transparency and efficiency within local government agencies. While these reports are non-binding, they play a significant role in encouraging agencies to address the issues raised.
• Collaborate as a Group: Work collectively as part of the Grand Jury, as individual jurors do not have the authority to act alone. All actions, discussions, and votes must remain confidential, in compliance with legal requirements.
• Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all discussions and decisions made within the Grand Jury. All matters, including votes, must not be disclosed to the public unless part of a formal report.

Time Commitment and Reimbursement:

• The Grand Jury operates from July 1 through June 30 of the following year.
• Jurors are expected to dedicate 15-20 hours per week to fulfill their responsibilities.
• Jurors will receive a per diem of $15 per day for days attending meetings, with a maximum reimbursement of $30 per week.
• Jurors are reimbursed for mileage related to travel between their residence and the Grand Jury office, as well as travel for Grand Jury business.
• Free parking is provided at the County Government Center.

Foreperson In addition to the above, the foreperson is responsible for overseeing administrative tasks and acting as a liaison for the Grand Jury. Key duties include:

• Serve as spokesperson for the Grand Jury, acting as contact for County Counsel, supervising judge, and media.
• Maintain records of committee assignments, members, and meeting schedules.
• Coordinate investigative committees and track progress.
• Prepare and distribute weekly plenary agendas, minutes, and materials.
• Attend weekly meetings with the operations team.
• Assist in recruiting juror candidates for the next term.
• Support the incoming foreperson for up to 45 days after the term ends.
• Ensure a productive and professional atmosphere for the Grand Jury.
• The foreperson’s role requires 5-10 additional hours per week beyond regular jury duties

Training and Support:

• Jurors will receive two days of training at the start of their term, provided by the California Grand Jurors' Association (CGJA), with ongoing support throughout the year.
• The Presiding Judge, District Attorney, County Counsel, and State Attorney General serve as legal advisors, offering guidance as needed.
• The Santa Cruz County Chapter of the CGJA also provides assistance in public relations, outreach, and support for Grand Jurors.

Time Commitment and Reimbursement

• The Grand Jury typically convenes July 1 and operates through June 30 of the following year.
• Jurors are expected to spend an average of 15-20 hours per week on their duties.
• Each juror is paid per diem ($15 per day) for those days when the juror attends a meeting, with a maximum of $30 per week.
• Jurors are provided free parking at the County Government Center. Mileage is reimbursed for travel between jurors’ residences and the Grand Jury office in the County Government Center, and for travel on grand jury business.

Training and Support Services The Presiding Judge of the Grand Jury, the District Attorney, the County Counsel, and the State Attorney General all act as advisors, responding to requests throughout the year. They act only as advisors and cannot prevent Grand Jury action unless that action violates the law.

The California Grand Jurors’ Association (CGJA) provides two days of training at the beginning of each term and support throughout the year. It is composed of current and former grand jurors from throughout the state. It is dedicated to promoting the understanding of the unique practices of grand juries in California and to educating the public and prospective grand jurors about the beneficial oversight function of this system. This dedication is embodied in their mission statement: To promote, preserve, and support the grand jury system through training, education, and outreach.

The Santa Cruz County Chapter of the CGJA is a group of former civil grand jurors from Santa Cruz County interested in continuing their service to the community. They have helped with public relations, community outreach, and juror support.

By joining the Civil Grand Jury, you’ll play an essential role in shaping local government practices, enhancing transparency, and fostering accountability for the betterment of Santa Cruz County residents.

Requirements to Become a Civil Grand Juror:

• Must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years old.
• Must have been a resident of Santa Cruz County for at least one year prior to selection.
• Must possess sound judgment, intelligence, and good character.
• Must be fluent in speaking and writing English.
• Must not be currently serving as a trial juror in any California court.
• Must not have been discharged from serving as a grand juror in any California county within one year of the service start date.
• Must not have been convicted of malfeasance in office or any felony or high crime.
• Must not be serving as an elected public official.

For more information visit: Civil Grand Jury | Superior Court of California | County of Santa Cruz