How to Apply/FAQ's

 How do I apply?  

  • Fill out the application here   Mail it to the address on the bottom of the form.   
 What happens next?
  • Applications are screened.
  • Those selected will be scheduled for an interview with a Superior Court Judge.
  • The Judges will recommend 30 individuals to serve on the Grand Jury, selecting citizens from each supervisorial district.

What happens if I’m approved to serve on the Grand Jury?
  • You will be invited by mail to the swearing-in ceremony, which is typically held on a Friday in mid-June.
  • Individual names will be randomly selected to fill all 19 seats.
  • Those selected will be sworn in immediately.
  • The remainder will be randomly drawn to determine their place as alternates.
  • You will then meet with new and former Grand Jurors who will answer questions you may have.

 How long will I serve?   When does my term start and end?    
  • Your service starts on the day you are sworn in.
  • It ends when the next Grand Jury is sworn in.  

When will I receive training?
  • Orientation training begins the following Monday.
  • Training typically runs for two weeks, Monday – Friday.
  • Training hours are approximately 9 am – 4 pm, but can run later. 

Will I be paid for training?
  • No, but you will receive reimbursement for mileage expenses.

What does the Grand Jury do?
  • Performs watchdog function by examining city and county governments and special districts to ensure duties are lawfully conducted.
  • Reviews and evaluates procedures to ensure efficient and economical operation of these entities.
  • Researches topical material.
  • Interviews individuals to gather facts.
  • Creates and issues reports to the community and press.
  • The Civil Grand Jury very seldom, if ever, is involved in criminal cases.

Does the Grand Jury have support staff?  
  • Grand Jury members provide their own clerical and administrative support.
  • Grand Jury legal advisors provide advice as requested.

What are the expectations of Grand Jury members?
  • Able to work with others in committee/workgroup settings.
  • Able to attend meetings Tuesday – Thursday, and work other days as needed. 
  • Able to spend a minimum of 20-30 hours/week on GJ business.
  • Able to communicate by email, be computer literate, with knowledge of Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft Word, and Excel.   
  • Be willing to actively assume leadership / supporting roles.
  • Be able to maintain strict confidentiality of all proceedings; this means nothing can be discussed outside the Grand Jury room with anyone, including family members, about Grand Jury activities, investigations, witnesses, or topics of interest.

What happens if I’m selected as an Alternate?
  • Lower numbers (1-4) should have an expectation to be called to serve at some time during the year.  Some years, all alternates are called.
  • Continue your life until called.
  • Be prepared to clear your calendar when you are called.

What if I have scheduled a vacation already?
  • Speak with the Foreperson.   Usually, it can be accommodated.  
  • Every effort should be made to limit absences from the Grand Jury and committees.

How will I be compensated for my time?
  • You will be paid a small daily stipend of $15 when you attend committee meetings.
  • You will be paid a small stipend of $15 when you attend weekly plenary sessions of the Grand Jury.
  • You will be reimbursed the IRS mileage rate for your Grand Jury-related travel.
  • Arrangements are made for parking.
  • Reimbursement requests (Demands on the Treasury) are submitted and paid monthly.

Applicants Needed

Contra Costa County is Now Accepting Applications for the 2024-2025 Civil Grand Jury! The Deadline to apply for the 2024-2025 term is March ...