The Civil Grand Jury is one of the great treasures of the California Constitution.

 

Every year, the local Superior Court in every county in of the state impanels a group of citizens, endows them with certain investigative powers and tells them to go forth and figure out how well local government is doing its job. At the end of that year, the jury issues a report or series of reports to tell everyone what it found.

The jury’s term runs from July to June, which means two things.

One: We will soon get to know what this year’s Humboldt County Grand Jury found, which is exciting.

Two: A new jury is about to be formed.

This morning comes word that the county is a little short of candidates for the upcoming Grand Jury. Maybe you could be such a candidate! Are you interested in and/or passionate about civic matters? Do you have some time to donate to this very interesting endeavor? Well, the Humboldt County Superior Court is putting out the batsignal for YOU.

Press release from Humboldt County Superior Court:

Applications are still being accepted for Humboldt County grand jury service for 2019/2020. Each July 1, Humboldt Superior Court impanels 19 citizens to act as an independent body of the judicial system. The Court encourages applications from citizens representing a broad cross-section of the Humboldt County community.

The primary work of the civil grand jury is to investigate and review citizen complaints concerning the operations of city and county government as well as other tax supported and non-profit agencies and districts. Based on these reviews, the grand jury publishes its findings and may recommend constructive action to improve the quality and effectiveness of local government. The civil grand jury does not consider criminal indictments.

Eligibility requirements for grand jury service are:

  • Citizen of the United States;
  • 18 years of age or older;
  • Resident of Humboldt County for at least one year before selection;
  • In possession of natural faculties, of ordinary intelligence, of sound judgment and fair character;
  • Sufficient knowledge of the English language;
  • Not currently serving as a trial juror in any court in this state;
  • Have not been discharged as a grand juror in any court of this state within one year;
  • Have not been convicted of malfeasance in office or other high crime;
  • Not serving as an elected public officer.

For more information and to print or complete an online grand jury application, visit the Court’s web site at: www.humboldt.courts.ca.gov, or contact Administration at 269-1245 and request an application be mailed to you.