Yolo Superior Court is now accepting applications for the 2011/2012 Yolo County Grand Jury. Each July 1 the Yolo Superior Court impanels 19 grand jurors who serve as an arm of the judicial system, but act as an entirely independent body.
The primary civil function of the grand jury is to review the operations of city and county government as well as other tax supported agencies and special districts. Based on these assessments, the grand jury publishes its findings and may recommend constructive action to improve the quality and effectiveness of local government.
Another responsibility of the grand jury is to consider criminal indictments based on evidence presented. The grand jury also investigates complaints from private citizens, local government officials, or government employees.
“The California Constitution requires each county to impanel a grand jury every year,” said Presiding Judge Dave Rosenberg. “The grand jury has broad powers to investigate and report on local government agencies and officials and serves a very important role in our democratic system of government.”
Eligibility requirements for grand jury service are:
- You must be a citizen of the United States;
- You must be 18 years of age or older;
- You have been a resident of Yolo County for at least one year before selection;
- You are in possession of your natural faculties, of ordinary intelligence, of sound judgment and fair character;
- You possess sufficient knowledge of the English language;
- You are not currently serving as a trial juror in any court of this state;
- You have not been discharged as a grand juror in any court of this state within one year;
- You have not been convicted of malfeasance in office or any felony or other high crime;
- You are not serving as an elected public officer, and
- You must have access to electronic communication and use standard software applications.
If selected, the term of service is one year, from July 1 through June 30. You should be committed to serving the entire year. The average time commitment is approximately 25-40 hours per month, with more time required during the peak period in the spring. Generally, the grand jury meets twice per month, usually in the evening. For each day’s attendance, reimbursement to grand jurors is at the rate of fifteen dollars ($15) per day and fifty-one cents ($0.51) per mile round trip from their home to the meeting location. There are occasions where additional committee meetings may occur during business hours. There are two training opportunities soon after the new term begins. One is a half-day session held in Woodland and the other is a two-day seminar, sponsored by the California Grand Juror’s Association, which takes place in the Sacramento area. Please submit all applications by Friday, April 15, 2011.
“Grand jury service is important work and requires considerable responsibility,” said James B. Perry, Court Executive Officer and Jury Commissioner. “It is also an exciting opportunity to serve your community and learn more about local government. It can be an incredibly rewarding and satisfying experience.”
For a grand jury application, write, go online, or call:
Yolo Superior Court
Jury Services Office
725 Court St., Room 303
Woodland, CA 95695
530 406-6828
www.yolo.courts.ca.gov
