Marin Voice: County needs citizen watchdogs serving on civil grand jury

Marin County is known for its engaged residents, strong civic culture and high expectations for good government. Yet one of the most important ways residents can help ensure transparency and accountability remains largely unknown to many: serving on the Marin County Civil Grand Jury.

Each year, 19 Marin residents are selected by the Superior Court to serve on this independent, volunteer body. Civil grand jurors are not judges and do not hear criminal cases. Instead, they serve as a citizen watchdog, charged with reviewing the operations of local government agencies, special districts and public institutions. Their role is to examine how public resources are used and whether agencies are operating efficiently, legally and in the best interests of the community.

The grand jury’s authority comes from California law, but its effectiveness depends on informed citizens willing to ask thoughtful, sometimes difficult questions. Jurors investigate issues that affect daily life in Marin, from public safety and infrastructure to financial practices, governance and service delivery. Committees of jurors review documents, conduct interviews, visit facilities and analyze data. At the end of the process, the jury issues public reports containing findings and recommendations. These reports are read by elected officials, agency leaders and the public. They frequently lead to meaningful improvements.

Despite this impact, many residents never consider applying. Some assume they lack the necessary qualifications. Others imagine the work is legalistic or political. In reality, no legal background is required, and the jury is strictly nonpartisan. What matters most are qualities many Marin residents already possess: curiosity, fairness, analytical thinking and a commitment to public service.

Marin civil grand jurors come from a wide range of backgrounds. They include educators, engineers, accountants, health-care professionals, nonprofit leaders, small business owners and retirees. This diversity of experience strengthens the jury’s work. Different perspectives help jurors see issues more clearly and produce well-reasoned, balanced reports that reflect the county as a whole.

Service does require a significant time commitment. Jurors serve for one year, from July through June, and workloads vary throughout the year. The work is demanding, but more importantly, most jurors find it deeply rewarding.

Serving on the grand jury offers a rare opportunity to understand how local government actually functions. Jurors gain insight into how decisions are made, how budgets are developed, and how policies are implemented across numerous agencies. They develop research, writing and teamwork skills, and they build strong relationships with fellow jurors who share a dedication to the public good. Many former jurors describe the experience as one of the most meaningful forms of civic service they have ever undertaken.

At a time when trust in public institutions is often strained, the grand jury stands as a practical example of democracy working as intended. Ordinary citizens, acting independently and guided by evidence and fairness, provide oversight on behalf of the community. The process is transparent, disciplined and focused on improvement rather than blame.

The Marin chapter of the Civil Grand Jurors’ Association, made up of former jurors, works year-round to educate the public about this unique institution and to encourage a broad pool of applicants. A strong civil grand jury depends on participation from across Marin’s communities, professions and life experiences. Diversity is not just desirable; it is essential to the jury’s credibility and effectiveness.

Applications for the upcoming grand jury term are now open to eligible Marin County residents. The application and selection process is overseen by the Marin County Superior Court and is designed to ensure independence and integrity.

Serving on the grand jury is not about politics. It is about stewardship: caring enough about our shared institutions to examine them carefully and help them work better. Marin has long benefited from residents who step forward to serve. For those looking to make a tangible difference, the Marin County Civil Grand Jury offers a powerful opportunity to do just that.

Ed Schuller, of San Rafael, served on the 2024-25 Marin Civil Grand Jury. He is a board member for the Marin chapter of the Civil Grand Jurors Association of California.