What is the Civil Grand Jury?

The Civil Grand Jury is the only independent "watchdog" investigative body in Marin County.

Composed of 19 citizens, it monitors the performance of local government and makes recommendations which can save taxpayers' dollars and improve services.

Empowered by the judicial system, the Civil Grand Jury submits meaningful solutions to a wide range of problems.

A volunteer fact-finding body with the opportunity to make constructive changes, it is an institution independent of administrators, politicians and legislators.

Who can serve?

Any U.S. citizen, 18 years of age or older, who has been a resident of the County for one year immediately before being selected, of intelligence and good character, with a working knowledge of the English language, is eligible to serve on the Civil Grand Jury.

How does it work?

Each spring applications are accepted from all qualified citizens. Superior Court Judges review the candidates and select thirty potential jurors. A drawing is held to pick nineteen names, the remaining people serving as alternates. Marin County jurors are sworn in and begin their one year term starting the first of July. The Presiding Judge appoints a foreperson to preside at meetings. The jury then organizes itself and investigates various departments and functions of local government as it chooses. Subjects investigated are suggested by letters from citizens, complaints of alleged mistreatment by officials, suspicion of misconduct or government inefficiencies. Such complaints are kept confidential. If the situation warrants, and corrective action is under the jurisdiction of the Grand Jury, appropriate action is taken. The advice of County Counsel, the District Attorney, and Presiding Superior Court Judge is available. Interim and Final Reports are prepared which describe problems and contain findings and recommendations. Responses are required within 60 or 90 days depending on who the respondent is.

Why should you volunteer?

You will become involved with other interested citizens in learning more about city and County Government and special districts. An exciting, challenging year of investigations, interviews and thoughtful deliberation will give you a worthwhile education and unique experience. No other volunteer service gives you the opportunity to make a difference on such a large scope. AN OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Grand Juries were originally used in English courts in the eleventh century. In the United States, the Massachusetts Bay Colony impaneled the first Grand Jury in 1635 to consider cases of murder, robbery and wife beating. The U. S. Constitution's Fifth Amendment and California's Constitution call for a Grand Jury in each county. The Marin County Grand Jury functions largely in a civil capacity. Criminal cases are usually presented to the courts by the District Attorney or, on occasion, by a specially impaneled criminal grand jury.

Would YOU make a good grand juror?

If you are interested in making a valuable contribution to your community and having the privilege of serving on the Marin County Civil Grand Jury, you are urged to apply.

The Civil Grand Jury accepts applications at any time during the year. However, the Grand Jury works on a fiscal year basis and the deadline for submitting an application for next year’s Grand Jury is March 17.

For an application to be a Grand Juror click here  (Send completed forms to the address below)

For more information :

Marin County Civil Grand Jury
3501 Civic Center Drive, Rm. 275
San Rafael, CA 94903
Phone: (415) 499-6132; TTY: (415) 473-2226.

Suggestions and questions about Civil Grand Jury should be directed to Patricia ("Patti") Baseheart at (415) 499-6132.