We are so lucky to have an institution like no other state in the country: The California Civil Grand Jury.
Often called “Democracy’s Watchdog,” each county in California has a Civil Grand Jury comprising 12 to19 citizens who investigate citizen complaints, community concerns regarding how government money is spent, or how an agency’s policies and procedures may fall short of serving the public efficiently. The work is varied and interesting.
While many larger counties impose deadlines for applying, Nevada County welcomes applications year-round! A Civil Grand Juror is required to:
- be 18 or over,
- serve a one-year term from July 1 to June 30,
- commit 20+ hours a week for jury meetings and investigations,
- are a U.S. citizen and county resident of one year,
- enjoy working with others, and
- basic computer skills.
No special training, education, or experience is required – the Jury is meant to be a cross section representing all of our county’s population.
Join us for a live, online OLLI class on February 25 (repeated on April 22) to learn more about the California Civil Grand Jury. OLLI is the “Osher Lifelong Learning Institute” which is partnered with Sierra College. A $25.00 membership fee gives you access to this and other OLLI courses. The class is recorded to be watched later if you are unable to attend. Register here at www.sierraolli.org. You may also call (916) 781-6290 or (800) 242-4004 x16290 for more information. You can be a resident of any county to attend this class.
If you think being a Juror is for you, go to the Nevada County’s Superior Court site at https://www.nevada.courts.ca.gov/general-information/grand-jury. Here you will find information about the Civil Grand Jury, how to submit a complaint with the Jury for possible investigation, read Jury reports, and (most importantly!) the application to serve.
Local involvement in community affairs has a direct impact on our lives more than we sometimes realize and is needed now more than ever. As your next mission, please consider serving on the Nevada County Civil Grand Jury!
Kathleen Williams
President, California Civil Grand Jurors’ Association, Nevada County Chapter
Kathleen Williams was Foreman of the Nevada County Civil Grand Jury for the 2021 – 2022 jury year. The Nevada County Chapter of the CGJA serves to educate the community about the value of serving on the Civil Grand Jury and assist with its recruitment efforts.