Description

Serving as a Grand Juror is a unique and meaningful way to contribute to your community. If you’re passionate about civic responsibility, justice, and government accountability, this could be the opportunity for you. The Grand Jury term will begin on July 1, 2026, and end on June 30, 2027.

Examples of Duties

Sacramento County’s Civil Grand Jury is an independent watchdog that monitors government agencies and services. Made up of 19 citizen volunteers from all walks of life, it represents the voices and concerns of our entire community. The Grand Jury has a separate and different function from that of a jury. Unlike cases presented in a courtroom, Grand Jurors review and investigate the performance of county, city, and local governing entities, including special districts. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the Grand Jury to recommend changes for improving local government.

Each Grand Jury member serves on three Committees, ranging from Health and Human Services to Education, Criminal Justice, Administration, and Environmental Protection. Meetings will occur several times each week. In addition, jurors meet with county and city officials, visit various facilities, and conduct independent reviews on matters of interest or concern.

Investigations can be initiated by the Grand Jury itself or suggested by citizens. The Grand Jury may respond to complaints of alleged mistreatment by officials and suspicion of misconduct. All investigatory work of the Grand Jury is confidential.

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered for the grand jury, you must be:

• 18 or older, a United States citizen, and a resident of Sacramento County for at least one year prior to service;
• Interested in investigating the performance of local government agencies;
• Possess intelligence, sound judgment and fair character;
• Have not been convicted of a malfeasance in office, a felony, or any other high crime;
• Not be serving as an elected public officer during the term of office as a grand juror;
• Have not have served as a grand juror within the last year;
• Enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with others and recommend solutions to improve governance and services;
• A good listener, with patience, who has skill and experience in fact finding, investigative techniques, and report writing;
• Ready to invest 25 to 35 hours a week, will require attendance of at least four days a week;
• Able to communicate in English - both orally and in writing;
• Computer literate; and
• Willing to ensure your work remains absolutely confidential.

Other Information

California Rules of Court rule 10.625 requires that certain demographic data from prospective grand jurors be collected and maintained.