The selection process for the FY 2011-2012 Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury is starting. Anyone interested in serving on the Civil Grand Jury may contact the Grand Jury Office at 558-7766 or go on line at www.stanct.org to download an application. The deadline for applications is May 2, 2011
All persons who qualify for the grand jury will be interviewed by the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court Ricardo Córdova, Judge Loretta Begen, and Court Executive Officer Michael Tozzi. From those interviewed, Judge Córdova will select 30 finalists; from these 30 names, the 19-member panel Civil Grand Jury and four alternates will be selected in open court by a random selection process on July 1, 2011.
Civil Grand Jurors must meet the same qualifications as a trial juror. The term of office for a grand juror is one year, from July 1 to June 30. Grand jurors must be available at least 20 hours per month. The primary function of the Civil Grand Jury is to act as the public "watchdog" by investigating and reporting upon the affairs of local governmental agencies, including County and City government, special districts and school districts.
David D. France, foreperson for the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 Civil Grand Juries, said, "My experience has been extremely rewarding. I’ve met a number of outstanding people, received excellent support and training, and learned a great deal about local governmental agencies. This is an excellent way to give back to the community, meet new and interesting people, and perform a valuable service. I heartily recommend this experience for those looking to take on a project that will benefit the entire county."Applications are available now.
