HomeMy WebLinkAbout0 - OC Grand Jury Presentation• Substantial background in
group /committee work
• Good to excellent health
• Respect and objectivity concerning the
positions and views of others
• Be able and available to serve for a
commitment of one full year
SELECTION PROCESS
Applications for grand jury service are reviewed by
the Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee,
comprised of Superior Court judges. Every effort is
made to recruit both men and women from all socio-
economic levels, ethnic groups and age groups.
Previous applicants who were not selected are
encouraged to reapply. Applicants arejudged on the
knowledge, skills and abilities required forsuccessful
performance as a grand juror. This screening
process will identify approximately 90 applicants for
further consideration.
A background check by the Orange County Sheriff-
Coroner Department will be conducted on those
applicants who are found to be best qualified,
interested and available to serve. Those applicants
who appear to be qualified will be invited for an
interview with two members of the committee.
Following the interviews the full committee will select
finalists for the list of potential grand jurors, which
may not exceed 30 names.
In addition, the law requires that potential grand
jurors shall be selected from the five supervisorial
districts in proportion to the population of those
districts.
The 30 persons selected will constitute the grand
jury panel and are summoned to appear in court
where all names are placed in a lottery draw. The
first 19 names chosen become the next Orange
County Grand Jury. The remaining 11 names are
drawn to provide alternates.
Shortly before the beginning of the term of service,
July 1 through June 30, a training program is
conducted for incoming Grand Jurors pursuant to PC
§ 914(b). The foreperson is selected by the
Supervising Judge of the Criminal Panel and the
Grand Jury Recruitment/ Selection Committee
Chairperson. All other officers are chosen bythejury
itself.
COMMITMENT / COMPENSATION
The complex, diverse responsibilities of grand jurors
make it necessary to give a serious commitment to
the time requirements. The usual work schedule is
four to five days per week, although some evening
or weekend meetings may be required.
Jurors are provided with meeting facilities and
secure, adjacent parking, as well as $50 per day not
to exceed $250 per week. Reimbursement for the
mileage to and from meetings is allowed at the
regular county rate.
APPLICATIONS / FURTHER INFORMATION
For more information or a grand jury application,
please write or call:
Superior Court of California
County of Orange
Office of the Jury Commissioner
700 Civic Center Drive West
Santa Ana, CA 92702 -1970
Grand Jury Hotline: (714) 834 -6747
Superior Court Web Site:
www.ocqrandiury.org /
E -mail: feedback(aD-occourts.org
INVITATION
To Participate
in the
Orange County
Grand Jury
You can Mahe a difference
Revised 8 /06
Participation in grand jury investigation and
discussion is a rich and rewarding experience.
It is an opportunity to get an intimate look at
how government works and to make informed
and valuable recommendations regarding
possible improvements. It is also an
opportunity to serve with fellow county
residents and to discover how a body of
nineteen citizens reaches consensus. This is
the heart of the democratic process, and
service on the grand jury is a valuable way to
learn, to contribute and to make a difference in
your community.
CRIMINAL / CIVIL FUNCTIONS
The major functions of a grand jury are divided into
criminal indictments and civil investigations. While
both functions are executed by the same panel in
Orange County, the civil investigation portion
requires the majority of the jury's time.
Criminal Indictments
The District Attorney will bring the majority of cases
that are presented to the grand jury; however, the
State Attorney General or a Special Prosecutor may
present a case. The responsibility of the grand jury
does not extend beyond the determination of
whether or not there is probable cause to believe
that a crime has been committed and that the
accused has committed such crime.
Criminal indictment hearings are conducted in
secrecy to protect witnesses and defendants in
cases of no indictment. During a criminal
investigation, only District Attorney representatives
and a court reporter are allowed in the jury room,
with a few exceptions. No person other than a grand
juror may be present during deliberations or voting.
An indictment can be returned only if a minimum of
12 jurors agree.
Historically, the grand jury indictment process is
used for cases where:
Public officials, employees or police officers
are involved
• Statute of limitations is a concern
• The indictment is complex and must be
presented over a long period of time
• Grand jury subpoena powers are necessary
• Secret and non - adversarial setting is needed
for sensitive cases, such as cases involving
children or rape victims
Civil Investigations
The civil, or "watchdog," responsibilities of the grand
jury encompass the examination of all aspects of
county government, including special districts, to
ensure that the county is being governed honestly
and efficiently and that county monies are being
handled appropriately. The grand jury is mandated
by lawto inquire into the conditions and management
of public jails.
The grand jury may conduct investigations on public
agencies and on the administration and affairs of any
city within the county, as well as examine books and
records of redevelopment agencies. It is also
appropriate for any private citizen, county official or
county employee to present a written complaint to
the grand jury for investigation.
Early in its term, the grand jury selects the
government affairs it wishes to investigate. These
investigations are generally conducted by
committees, which correspond with the primary
functions of the county. Committees may ask for
support and advice from Superior Court, District
Attorney, County Counsel, Attorney General or
outside consultants.
By the last day of each year of service, the grand jury
is required by law to submit all final reports to the
Presiding Judge. These reports include all studies
and investigations conducted by the jury during its
term, with appropriate findings and
recommendations. Copies of individual reports are
submitted to each county entity investigated, with
instructions that response to
findings /recommendations be made by the
responsible governing body within 60 or 90 days.
Past grand jury reports are available for inspection
by the public at many public libraries and on the
internet at www.ocgrandiury.orq/
GRAND JUROR QUALIFICATIONS
The law states grand jury applicants must have these
qualifications:
• Citizen of the United States, 18 years of
age or older
• Resident of state and county for at least
one year prior to being selected
• In possession of natural faculties, ordinary
intelligence, sound judgment, fair character
• Possess sufficient knowledge of the
English language
Applicants are disqualified if any of the following
apply:
• Presently serving as a trial juror in any
court in the state
• Presently serving as an elected public
official
• Discharged as a grand juror in any court in
the state within one year
• Convicted of malfeasance in office or any
felony or other high crime
Beyond the legal requirements, several other
qualifications are desirable for a grand juror:
General knowledge of the functions,
authorities and responsibilities of county
and city government and of other civil
entities
Research abilities, including ability to read
and comprehend complex material, a
background in accessing /analyzing facts
and experience in report writing
he origin of the Grand Jury can be traced back to the time of the
Norman conquest of England in 1066. "There is evidence that the
courts of that time summoned a body of sworn neighbours to present
crimes which had come to their knowledge.
Generally,
historians
agree that the
Assize of
Clarendon in
1166 was the
genesis of
our present
Grand Jury
systern. Dur-
ing die reign
of Henry II
(1154 - 1189),
twelve "good
and lawful"
men in each
village were
asserubled to
reveal the
names of
those
Drugs County Jail, circa 1920
suspected of crimes.
By the year 1290, the accusing jury was given the authority to inquire
into the maintenance of bridges and highways; • the defects of jails, rare
whether the sheriff had kept ui jail anyone who should have been brought
before the justices,
The Massachusetts Bay Colony empanelled the first Grand Jury in 1635
to consider cases of murder, robl.vry and wife beatinz ,
Although originally the C'orstitution of the United Status, r nice no prc-vi -
sion for a Grand Jury, the a fifth ikniei idl-ncf it, rat if"I Li 1 ;` i. _ti, 1S-aii ::c
that:
.. , no person: shall be hell TO answer to a capital, or other,. -i:e 1rrainous
crime, unless on a presenr rent of indictment of a Grwid Jury, ex x� pt in
cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia when in actual
service in time of war or public danger ..."
California is one of the states to irridate prosecution by either indictmem
or preliminary hearing.
The first California Penal Codes. Statutes providing for a Granc
Jury. Early Grand Juries ilMestigated local prisons, conducted audits 01
county books and pursued emitters of community interest. 'Tlr:: role 01
the Grand Jury in California is unique, uy staaaes pass '-d in 1880;
include investigation of county government. Only "alifornia and
Nevada mandate that Grand Juries be empanelled atni ualiy to function:
specifically as it "watchdog" over county government.
As constituted today, the Grand Jury is a pan of the judicial brand.
of government - "an arm of the court." It dc:•_s not 11.uvc ft;n liatl
of either the legislative or administrative branches and it is nivt a )oUce
agency. Its primary role is the examination of all aspects of county
government, as well as examination of the fiscal affairs of cities and
special districts.
The chief function of present day Grand Juries is that or of
county government.
This "watchdog" function can operate only if lines of conar! inication tc
the public, which the Grand Jury represents, are 1•cept open arrd Cieaf. Public
opinion, brought to bear on decision- makers, can affect the changes which
Grand Juries cats only recommend.
While it is a part of the judicial system, a Grand Jury is an entirely inde-
pendent body. The presiding judge of the criminal department of the Supe-
rior Count, the District Attorney, the County Counsel and the State Attor-
ney General act as its advisors, but cannot control or direct the acdons of
the Jury except for legality and a concern for liability and respon:.ibidry
Because of the confidential nature of a Grand Jury's work, rnt_ch of it
must be conducted in closed session. Members of a dra.nd Jun, arc. sworn
to secrecy, thus assuring all who appear that their coniplahits «9i1 be h:ar-
dled in an entirely confidential manner. No one may be pres,_n; dt in,), Th
sessions of a Grand Jury except those specified by lxw ('Per Ld C:c,:'; 939
and the minutes of its meetings may not be inspected by anyone., nor coal
its records be subpoenaed. y
MAKE A
�f
DIFFERENCE!
Serve Your Community as an
ORANGE COUNTY GRAND JUROR
Application Deadline: JANUARY 18, 2013
For more information or an application go to
www.ocgrandjury.org, or call the
Grand Jury Hotline, (714) 834 -6747.
Be Involved
Promote Sound Government
Make Recommendations to
County Agencies and Cities
Term of Service
July 1, 2013 -June 30, 2014
$50 /day, up to $250 /week
Meet new people while
serving the Orange County
community.
2013/2014 ORANGE COUNTY GRAND JURY
RECRUITMENT /SELECTION TIMETABLE OF EVENTS
Superior Court of California, County of Orange
10/112012
Application Period Opens: Information and application available at
www.ocgrandjury.org / or by calling the Grand Jury Hotline at (714) 834 -6747.
11/2012
O.C. Board of Supervisors declares November as Grand Jury Awareness Month.
1/18/2013
Application Deadline
1/25/2013
Mandatory Orientation, 3:00 p.m., conducted bi the Court and Grand Jury at the
Central Justice Center, Jury Assembly Room (3r floor), 700 Civic Center Drive
West, Santa Ana.
2/4/2013
Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee meeting.
2/4- 2/1512013
Screening process by the Judges of the Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection
Committee to select approximately 90 of the most qualified applicants
proportionately from the five O.C. Supervisorial Districts.
2/21/2013
Jury Commissioner confirms top applicants and informs all applicants by mail.
2125- 3/25/2013
O.C. Sheriff's Department conducts approximately 90 background investigations.
4/2- 4/12/2013
Judges' Grand Jury Recruitment /Selection Committee members conduct interviews.
4/22/2013
Judges' Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee meets to select 30 nominees,
selected proportionately from the five O.C. Supervisorial Districts.
4/25/2013
Superior Court judges vote to approve final list of 30 prospective Grand Jurors by
ballot (majority vote required).
5/2/2013
Letter from Judges' Grand Jury Recruitment /Selection Committee chair mailed to all
candidates. List of 30 nominees released by the Court for publication.
5/8- 5/9/2013
30 nominees fingerprinted at O.C. Sheriff's Department, Live Scan Office, 320 N.
Flower Street, Santa Ana.
5/1412013
Drawing to designate 19 Grand Jury members and 11 alternates, 12:00 noon,
Central Justice Center, Department C1.
511712013
Deadline for members to apply to be foreperson of incoming Grand Jury.
5/23 - 5/24/2013
Judicial panel interviews foreperson candidates.
5/30/2013 Selection of Grand Jury foreperson announced.
6/3, 6/4, 6/5, Mandatory Training program for 19 members and first five alternates of the
6/10 & 6/11/2013 incoming Grand Jury conducted by the outgoing Grand Jury and their advisors.
7/1/2013 Oath of Office Ceremony, 10:00 a. m., Central Justice Center, Department C1.
Discharge to outgoing Grand Jurors, and oath /charge to incoming Grand Jurors.
GLENDA SANDERS
ASSISTANT PRESIDING JUDGE
,5"uptrtor Tourt of Tatifornta
TountU of Mrangr
October 2012
Re: 2013/2014 Orange County Grand Jury Recruitment
700 CIVIC CENTER DRIVE WEST
SANTA ANA, CA 92702
PHONE: 657 - 622 -7010
The Orange County Superior Court is seeking qualified citizens for the 2013/2014 Orange County
Grand Jury. Service as a Grand Juror requires a one -year commitment from July 1, 2013, to June
30, 2014, and offers an exciting and rewarding opportunity to make a difference in our county
government.
Please review the enclosed Recruitment/Selection Timetable of Events, Information for
Prospective Grand Jurors, What to Expect during the Background Investigation Process, and
application. If you meet the qualifications and are able to serve, we encourage you to submit an
application. The application and more information are also available on the Grand Jury website,
www.ocgrandjury.org /. If you wish to be removed from the mailing list, please call the Grand
Jury Hotline, (714) 834 -6747.
For the background investigation process, the Orange County Sheriff - Coroner Department requires
that a California Notary Public verify each applicant's identity on the "Authorization to Release
Information" form (page 9 of the application). Do not submit your application without a notarized
signature. Completed applications must be received at the address below no later than Friday,
January 18, 2013.
Mr. Alan Carlson, Chief Executive Officer
Superior Court of California, County of Orange
700 Civic Center Drive West
P. O. Box 1970
Santa Ana, CA 92702 -1970
Thank you for considering this opportunity.
Sincerely,
Hon. Glenda Sanders
Assistant Presiding Judge
Chair, Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee
Enclosures: Grand Jury Flyer and Recruitment/Selection Timetable of Events
Information for Prospective Grand Jurors
What to Expect during the Background Investigation Process
Application
INFORMATION FOR PROSPECTIVE GRAND JURORS
The following information is provided to assist citizens in their decision to volunteer as a
prospective grand juror. Anyone who is ultimately selected to serve on the Grand Jury must
be fully aware of the time and personal sacrifice involved. Therefore, each prospective grand
juror should sincerely and thoughtfully weigh all family, personal and business obligations
before seeking this nomination.
HOW THE GRAND JURY IS SELECTED:
Screening Applications: An application received from a prospective Grand Juror is
forwarded to the Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee comprised of Judges of
the Superior Court for screening to determine the individual's qualifications for Grand
Jury service. The screening process will identify approximately ninety (90) individuals
who will be interviewed.
The law requires that prospective grand jurors fairly reflect a cross section of our County.
Grand Jurors shall be selected from the five Supervisorial Districts in proportion to the
number of inhabitants.
Investigation by Orange County Sheriff: Deputies from the O.C. Sheriffs Department
will conduct an interview, perform a background investigation, make a check of law
enforcement agencies, and submit a report to the Jury Commissioner on each of
approximately ninety (90) individuals. In order to facilitate the background investigation
process, each applicant must have a California Notary verify their signature on the
application. This service is provided free of charae by the O.C. Sheriff's Department.
Interview and Nomination: The candidates selected for interview will meet with one to
three judges of the Grand Jury Recruitment /Selection Committee. The individuals found
to be most qualified will be placed in nomination on behalf of the committee.
Processinq by RecruitmenVSelection Committee: The law requires that the Superior
Court prepare a list of potential Grand Jurors of not less than twenty -five (25), nor more
than thirty (30) names. As previously mentioned, the Recruitment/Selection Committee
has the difficult task of screening dozens of applications, to reduce the number to thirty
(30). The Recruitment/Selection Committee will consider applicants from all identifiable
groups within the County in order to have a jury as representative of the community as
possible.
Drawing of Grand Jury: The thirty (30) persons selected will constitute the Grand Jury
Panel and they will be summoned to appear in court at a time designated in the
summons (scheduled for May 14, 2013). The names of the persons who appear in
response to the summons are placed in a box and nineteen (19) names are drawn by
random selection from the box. The nineteen (19) individuals so selected will constitute
the Grand Jury for the ensuing fiscal year commencing July 1, 2013. After the names of
the nineteen (19) grand jurors have been drawn, the remaining names will be drawn by
random selection as alternates. If, during the year, a vacancy occurs, a selection to fill
this vacancy is made from the remaining names on the Panel in the order drawn.
-1-
ORIENTATION
An orientation program for prospective Grand Jurors will be held on Friday, January 25, 2013,
at 3:00 p.m. at the Superior Court of Orange County, Jury Assembly Room (3rd floor), 700 Civic
Center Drive West, Santa Ana. The program will be conducted by members of the judges'
Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee and members of the 2012/2013 Grand Jury.
Attendance at this orientation is required of all applicants.
REQUIREMENTS AND OBLIGATIONS
Service on the Orange County Grand Jury is a full -time iob for a full year. Orange County, with
a population of some three million people, numerous facilities, agencies and challenges, has
become so complex that members of the Grand Jury must be prepared to devote time and
energy to the needs and demands of this activity.
The Grand Jury normally works a five -day week. Jurors must be flexible and able to serve
some evening and weekend hours in addition to normal business hours. Generally, we
discourage jurors from planning vacations during the course of their term as a Grand Juror. If a
vacation is needed, they are requested to make it brief (1 -2 weeks). Although it is recognized
that illnesses and other emergencies may prevent attendance at all sessions, members are
expected to make a special effort to be present to fulfill their responsibilities as much as
possible. Prospective Grand Jurors can anticipate numerous field trips, both in and out of the
county, for purposes of gathering information and conducting investigations.
COMPENSATION
Compensation payable for grand jury service is $50.00 (taxable) per day for attendance either at
general sessions or committee assignments of the Grand Jury up to a maximum of $250.00 per
week. Mileage expense is compensated at the rate payable to employees of the County of
Orange for each mile actually and necessarily traveled for purposes of said sessions or
committee work. Underground parking is provided without charge.
FACILITIES
The secured Grand Jury suite consists of a panel jury chamber, committee meeting rooms, and
administrative offices and is staffed by an executive administrative assistant.
ORGANIZATION AND DUTIES OF THE GRAND JURY
Penal Code §912 authorizes the Superior Court judge in charge of the Grand Jury to appoint a
Foreperson of the Grand Jury.
Recent Grand Juries have found it expedient to elect certain officers, including the Foreperson
Pro -Tem, Secretary, Sergeant at Arms, Parliamentarian, and Assistant Secretary. Grand Jury
officers and committee chairs may constitute the Executive Board.
-2-
Committees are created by each Grand Jury and are responsible for studying and investigating
areas of Orange County government, special districts, municipalities, and following through on
complaints from the public. In addition, the Foreperson can direct the formation of committees
to study unique problems which occur during a Grand Jury's tenure. Committee selection is
based on a combination of panel needs and personal interest, with needs of the panel the
overriding factor.
Presently, Committee membership is determined by the Foreperson and is based upon a juror's
expressed interest, past experience and training as well as the need to balance committees with
regard to size and to avoid conflicts in scheduling.
The following committees have been formed in past Grand Juries:
A. CITIES COMMITTEE
The Cities Committee is responsible for the thirty -four city governments within the County of
Orange. The Cities Committee scope includes, but is not limited to, the functions of city
councils and mayors, city managers, city attorneys, city clerks, city engineers, city finance, city
parks and recreation, city planners, and city public works.
B. COUNTY GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE
The County Government Committee has responsibility for the review of the operations of the
Office of the Board of Supervisors, Assessor, Auditor /Controller, County Administrative Office,
Clerk/Recorder, County Counsel, Personnel Department, Tax Collector- Treasurer, and the
Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO).
C. CRIMINAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE
The Criminal Justice Committee reviews and examines the operations of the Sheriff - Coroner,
Probation Department, District Attorney's Office and the Public Defender's Office. It may also
evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the County criminal justice system. The Penal Code
§919 states that the Grand Jury shall inquire into the condition and management of the public
prisons within the County.
D. ENVIRONMENT /TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
The Environment/Transportation Committee reviews activities of the following countywide
agencies concerned with environmental planning and management: Planning Commission,
Environmental Management Agency, all transportation agencies (including John Wayne
Airport), and the Integrated Waste Management Department.
E. HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
The Human Services Committee studies issues related to the welfare, health and education of
Orange County residents. The committee's area of review responsibility covers a broad range
of county entities. It may interact with the Social Services Agency, the Health Care Agency, and
the Community Services Agency, as well as others.
-3-
F. CONTINUITY /SPECIAL ISSUES COMMITTEE
The Special Issues Committee investigates subjects and answers complaints that do not fall
specifically in the area of responsibility of any other committee. Although not specifically
mandated, the election process has been a traditional responsibility of this committee.
G. SUPPORT COMMITTEES
The following committees are responsible for the administration of the Grand Jury:
1. EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
The Final Report /Editorial Committee is responsible for the development and
implementation of a standardized format for all Grand Jury reports, including text, cover
and insert designs, and distribution. It also assists in the compilation and editing of all
final and interim reports, letters, and resolutions.
2. RECRUITMENT /ORIENTATION COMMITTEE
This committee plans and conducts a training program for the next year's Grand Jury in
compliance with PC §914 (b). The Recruitment/Orientation Committee may also assist
the Jury Commissioner with Grand Jury recruitment efforts.
DUTIES OF THE GRAND JURY
• To act as the public's watchdog by investigating and reporting upon the affairs of local
government;
• To weigh criminal charges and determine whether indictments should be returned;
• To weigh allegations of misconduct against public officials and determine whether to
present formal accusations requesting their removal from office; and
• To review and act upon letters or complaints from citizens of Orange County.
PROSPECTIVE GRAND JUROR
Background Investigations
What to Expect during the Background Investigation Process
Orange County Sheriff - Coroner Department
Sandra Hutchens, Sheriff
Prospective Grand Juror background investigations are conducted by the Sheriff -Coroner
Department to assure that the applicants meet the requirements set forth in the
California Penal Code Section 893.
According to Penal Code Section 893
A person is competent to act as a Grand Juror only if he /she possesses each of the following
qualifications:
♦ The person is a citizen of the United States of the age of 18 years or older who shall have been a resident
of the state and of the county or city and county for one year immediately before being selected.
♦ The person is in possession of his /her natural faculties, of ordinary intelligence, of sound judgment, and
of fair character.
♦ The person is possessed of sufficient knowledge of the English language.
A person is not competent to act as a Grand Juror if any of the following apply:
♦ The person is serving as a trial juror in any court of this state.
♦ The person has completed service as a grand juror in any court of this state within one year.
♦ The person has been convicted of malfeasance in office or any felony or other high crime.
♦ The person is serving as an elected public official.
THE BASIC BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION INCLUDES:
Record Checks:
• Local police department(s) of city of residence and employment
• Orange County Automated Warrant Services System
• FBI Criminal Record System
• California Wanted Person System
• California Department of Motor Vehicles
• Credit reporting agency
• Orange County Registrar of Voters
• Orange County Superior Court indexes
• Federal Bankruptcy Court indexes
• Orange County District Attorney's Office
Interviews•
• With current employer or previous employer if prospective juror is retired.
With prospective juror at his/her home.
With selected neighbors of the prospective grand juror.
Written report to committee: Upon completion of the background investigations, the investigator submits
a written report on each of the approximately 90 selected applicants to the Superior Court judges of the
Grand Jury Recruitment /Selection Committee.
If you are selected to participate in the Final Draw: The 30 candidates selected to participate in the Final
Draw will be scheduled for fingerprinting by the Sheriff's Department.
Conclusion: The background investigation is not designed or intended to be an adversarial process, but it is
thorough. Cooperating with the Sheriff's Investigator speeds the investigation and minimizes any
inconvenience.
If you have questions: If, as a prospective grand juror, you have any questions regarding the background
investigation process, please contact the Sheriff's Professional Standards Division at (714) 834 -5311, or
(714) 834 -5316. Please note that the Orange County Sheriff - Coroner Department requires a California
Notary Public to verify your identity on the "Authorization to Release Information" form included in the
application packet.
Orange County Sheriff - Coroner Department
320 N. Flower Street
Santa Ana, CA 92703
(714) 834 -5311
2013/2014 Orange County Grand Jury Application and Nomination Form
Superior Court of California, County of Orange
Please print legibly in black ink or type. Your responses to the following questions will assist the Court in
determining your eligibility and qualifications to serve on the Orange County Grand Jury. An application form and
more information are also available online at www.ocgrandkury.org /.
1. Name:
Last Name
Former names used, if any:
2. Residence Address:
Street
City
Home Phone:
E -mail Address:
First Name Middle
Cell Phone:
Zip Code
Orange County Supervisorial District: . To find your district, check the O.C. Registrar of Voters at
http: / /electionmapping. ocqov. com/ OCdistdctmap2 /MapDistrict- layout.aspx, or call (714) 567 -7586.
3. Birth Date: / /
Month Day Year
Gender: Female ❑
4. Employment Status: Employed ❑
Former Occupation:
Present Occupation:
Employer:
Business Address:
Business Phone:
5. Emergency Contact:
Name
Relationship
Daytime Phone:
Place of Birth:
Male ❑
Not Employed ❑ Retired ❑
The Superior Court of California, County of Orange Grand Jury, is an equal opportunity placement. Please advise the Office of the
Jury Commissioner, (657) 622 -7171, if you will require reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process.
- 1 -
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
6. Do you have any physical or mental conditions that might limit your ability to perform the duties of a grand juror, i.e.
prolonged walking and stair - climbing at site visits, prolonged sitting and standing, listening and concentrating during
lengthy discussions with people holding different opinions, reading lengthy documents, etc.?
Yes ❑ No ❑
If you require a reasonable accommodation, please describe:
7. Are you contemplating an absence of more than a week from Orange County from July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014,
which may interfere with your performance as a Grand Juror? Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes, please indicate the approximate dates:
Departure Date:
Return
Please Note: A training program for the 201312014 Grand Jury is scheduled for June 3, 4, 5, 10, and 11, 2013,
pursuant to the California Penal Code §914. It is mandatory that each of the nineteen (19) persons selected
for the Grand Jury and the first five (5) alternates attend the training sessions on these dates,
8. Are you currently an elected or appointed public official? Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes, list title: Date term ends:
9. Are you related to or closely associated with any elected official or public employee?
Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes, list name and relationship:
10. Have you completed service as a civil or criminal Grand Juror in any court of this state within one year of today?
Yes ❑ No ❑
11. Are you now serving as a trial juror in any court in this state? Yes ❑ No ❑
12. Have you ever served as a Grand Juror in Orange County? Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes, list the year(s): and Foreperson(s):
If no, have you ever been chosen as an alternate in the Grand Jury random draw of the panel of 30, which
would include having your fingerprints scanned by the O.C. Sheriff's Department?
Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes, please list the year(s):
If no, have you ever been selected as one of the approximately 90 top applicants, which would include being
interviewed by judge(s) and subjected to a background investigation by the O.C. Sheriff's Department?
Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes, please list the year(s):
-2-
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
13. Have you ever been charged with any of the following?
Malfeasance (misconduct or wrongdoing) in office Yes ❑ No ❑
Felony Yes ❑ No ❑
Misdemeanor Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes to any of the above, provide details below:
Offense
City/State
Date
L Penalty
(Please note that a misdemeanor conviction is not an automatic bar to acceptance of your
application as each case is considered individually and confidentially.)
14. As a member of any profession or organization or as a holder of any office, have you ever been suspended,
disbarred, or otherwise disqualified? Yes ❑ No ❑
15. If selected as a grand juror, the California Penal Code §911 requires you to take the following oath or affirmation:
"I do solemnly swear (affirm) that 1 will support the Constitution of the United States and the State of
California, and all laws made pursuant to and in conformity therewith, will diligently inquire into, and true
presentment make, of all public offenses against the people of this state, committed or triable within this
county, of which the Grand Jury shall have or can obtain legal evidence. Further, 1 will not disclose any
evidence brought before the Grand Jury, nor anything which 1 or any other grand juror may say, nor the
manner in which I or any other grand juror may have voted on any matter before the Grand Jury. 1 will
keep the charge that will be given to me by the court."
Do you have any objections to taking such an oath or affirmation? Yes ❑ No ❑
16. Are you a citizen of the United States? Yes ❑ No ❑
17. Do you read and understand English? Yes ❑ No ❑
18. Will you have been a resident of Orange County for (at least) one year prior to May 1, 2013?
Yes ❑ No ❑
19. Are you registered to vote in Orange County? Yes ❑ No ❑
20. Are you able and willing to define and evaluate issues without expressing personal bias?
Yes ❑ No ❑
-3-
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
21. Are you aware that the Grand Jury is required to publish a final written report of issues they have investigated?
Yes ❑ No ❑
22. Are you willing to investigate county government issues and prepare written reports on these issues?
Yes ❑ No ❑
23. If you are employed, does your employer understand the nature of the duties of a grand juror and will he /she
release you to full -time grand jury service for the entire one year period that the jury shall be in session?
Yes ❑ No ❑
Please Note: Participation on the Grand Jury is strictly voluntary. Employers are not required to pay wages
or to provide time for employees to serve on the Grand Jury. If you are employed, a written release
verification from your employer must be attached to this application.
24. 1 agree to attend a mandatory orientation program for all Grand Jury applicants on Friday, January 25, 2013, at
3:00 p.m., in the Jury Assembly Room at the Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana.
Yes ❑ No ❑
25. Why do you want to serve on the Grand Jury and what contributions would you hope to make as a member
(attach additional sheets if necessary)?
26. What special skills or abilities would you contribute to the Grand Jury?
27. Please outline your knowledge and understanding of the role and function of the Grand Jury, and the role and
function of county government.
-4-
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
28. If selected, would you want to be Grand Jury Foreperson? Yes ❑ No ❑
If yes, why?
FOR COURT USE ONLY
The person named in this application is suitable, competent and qualified to serve as a grand juror pursuant to the
California Penal Code §893 and §896. 1 have discussed this impending nomination with the nominee and ascertained
his /her availability for service.
nominate this applicant for service on the Orange County Grand Jury for the 2013/2014 Fiscal Year.
Judge of the Superior Court of California, County of Orange Date
(signature)
Printed Name of Judge
-5-
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
BACKGROUND AND EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
Please summarize your background and employment experience below to provide an overview for the Grand Jury
Selection Committee, and for the foreperson's use to choose committee members and chairpersons. Resumes will be
accepted in addition to the following information. Use additional sheets as necessary, and type or print legibly on
single -sided pages.
Last Name
Past Employment:
Present Employment:
Education:
List your experience in:
Gathering Facts:
Analyzing Data:
Report Writing:
Committee Work (Volunteer or Paid):
Computer programs you use and are familiar with:
First Name Middle
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
STATEMENT
I understand that my name may be placed in nomination to be considered for membership on the Grand
Jury of Orange County for the 2013/2014 Fiscal Year and that I will be required to attend an orientation
program for all Grand Jury applicants to be held on Friday, January 25, 2013, at 3:00 p.rn. at the Superior
Court of Orange County's Central Justice Center, Jury Assembly Room (3rd floor), 700 Civic Center Drive
West, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
I am aware that Grand Jury service requires that I be in attendance a minimum of four (4) days per week
and, not infrequently, a full five (5) days per week. In this regard, I understand that as a grand juror I must
be flexible and able to serve some evening and weekend hours as well as working during normal business
hours. I understand that it is essential that all Grand Jury members be in attendance at all meetings and
only the most pressing emergency or my illness would be reasons for absence. I declare, pursuant to the
California Penal Code §896(a), that I will be available to serve during those required hours.
Each member of the Grand Jury shall be allowed fifty dollars ($50.00) (taxable) for each day's attendance,
either at general sessions or committee assignments of the Grand Jury, up to a maximum of two hundred
fifty dollars ($250.00) per week. Mileage expense is compensated at the rate payable to employees of the
County of Orange for each mile actually and necessarily traveled for purposes of said sessions or
committee work.
I recognize that my attendance will be expected and may be required by the Foreperson of the Grand Jury.
I agree that I will not become a candidate or become personally active in any campaign of a candidate for
elective office or in a campaign involving a political proposition during service on the Grand Jury.
I have read and understand the above and I hereby state that I have no commitments which would prevent
me from meeting the requirements for service on the Orange County Grand Jury. Further, I am in
possession of all my natural faculties, of ordinary intelligence and sound judgment, and fair character. I
understand that a criminal background check is part of the application process.
I affirm that the information provided in this application is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
Submitted by:
Last Name
Signature
First Name Middle
Date
Executed at ,
City State
-7-
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
RECRUITMENT SURVEY INFORMATION
This information is optional and confidential.
It is collected for statistical purposes, and is not considered in the selection process.
Please assist the court in the evaluation of the Grand Jury recruitment program by indicating all of the sources from
which you learned about Grand Jury service.
❑ Newspaper (which ?)
❑ TV /Radio (which ?)
❑ Referred by
Name
Indicate your ethnic derivation by checking one of the following:
❑ American Indian /Alaska Native
❑ Asian
❑ Black/African American
❑ Hispanic /Latino
❑ Community Organization
❑ Received in Mail
❑ Public Gathering
❑ Other
❑ Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
❑ White
❑ Other race or ethnicity, please specify below
IMPORTANT NOTICES
Your application must be notarized on page 9 by a California Notary Public before you submit it to
the Court. Also, check to see that your signature is on pages 7 and 10 in the appropriate areas
before returning your completed application to:
Mr. Alan Carlson, Chief Executive Officer
Superior Court of California, County of Orange
700 Civic Center Drive West
P. O. Box 1970
Santa Ana, CA 92702 -1970
An online application form and more information are available at: www.ocgrandiury.org/
Grand Jury Hotline: (714) 834 -6747
Application submission deadline: Friday, January 18, 2013
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF - CORONER DEPARTMENT
L
AUTHORIZATION TO RELEASE INFORMATION
For Orange County Grand Jury Applicants
As an applicant for a position on the Orange County Grand Jury, I am required to furnish information for use in
determining my qualifications as set forth in California Penal Code §893.
I authorize the release of any and all information you may have concerning me, including, but not limited to,
information of a confidential or privileged nature, or any data or materials which have been sealed or understood to be
withheld pursuant to any prior agreement or court proceeding involving disciplinary matters.
For Applicants With Peace Officer Status: I acknowledge that I have been advised that the records or information
contained therein may be considered confidential under California Penal Code §832.7, and therefore subject to
discovery or disclosure only pursuant to a noticed motion under Evidence Code §1043. By signing this authorization, I
hereby waive any and all rights to have any record(s) or information contained therein discovered or disclosed only by
a noticed motion pursuant to Evidence Code §1043, and thereby authorize the disclosure of all records to which, as an
employee, the undersigned would have or did have access.
A photocopy of this release is to be considered as valid as an original.
Important Note: You must have this document notarized below bV an official California Notary Public before
you submit it to the Court. This may be done free of charge by the Orange County Sheriff - Coroner
Department's Background Investigation Unit by scheduling an appointment at (714) 834 -5316, or you may use
a California Notary Public of your choice and pay the nominal fee for this service.
Complete the following in the presence of a California Notary Public:
State of California
County of Orange
Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on this
day of
Date Month
by
Name of Signer
Signature of Signer
Year
He /she proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be
the person who appeared before me.
Signature
(Place Notary Seal Above) Signature of Notary Public
M
Orange County Grand Jury Application
Last Name:
In connection with your application for Grand Jury service, we will obtain and review your consumer credit report from
the following credit bureau:
EXPERIAN
I have read and understand the above notice.
Last Name
Street Address:
City:
California Drivers' License or Identification Number:
Social Security Number:
Signature
First Name
State:
❑ YES ❑ NO
Zip:
Date
Under California law, you have the right to receive a copy of your credit report directly from the credit bureau free of
charge. Indicate below whether or not you want a copy of your credit report mailed to you by the credit bureau.
I want a free copy of my credit report sent to me.
❑ YES ❑ NO
FOR ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF - CORONER DEPARTMENT USE ONLY:
Submitted to Credit Bureau by:
Orange County Sheriff - Coroner Department Employee Name
Company Name: Orange County Sheriff - Coroner Department
Subscriber Number: 1916395
(Employer may use this form to request disclosure of the credit report to employment applicant under California Law.)
Rev. 9/2012
-10-