County of Santa Cruz Grand Jury

Grand Jury

Department head: Lauren Tobin

701 Ocean St, Room 318, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

(831) 454-2099

The Civil Grand Jury in California was established to help hold local governments accountable. Although a part of the judicial system, the grand jury is an independent body with three functions: to examine city and county governments and special districts by initiating its own investigations; to serve as ombudsman for the citizens of the county; and
to publish its findings and recommendations to improve governmental operations.

The Grand Jury may inquire into any aspect of county or city government, including special legislative districts and joint power agencies, to serve the best interest of Santa Cruz County residents. The Grand Jury typically convenes July 1 and operates through June 30 of the following year. Jurors are expected to spend an average of 15-20 hours per week on their duties. Each juror is paid per diem ($15 per day) for those days when the juror attends a meeting, with a maximum of $30 per week.