Residents Sought To Serve On The Orange County Grand Jury

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — Orange County court leaders are seeking residents who are interested in playing a key role in criminal investigations as part of the county's grand jury, the OC Register reported Monday.

Orange County residents interested in becoming grand jurors can apply until Feb. 24. Those elected to the 19-member panel will serve a yearlong term that starts July 1.

The public watchdogs investigate citizen complaints, prepare reports on the actions of government agencies and issues penalties for serious crimes.

Panel members must commit to serving four to five days a week and be available for weekend and evening meetings.

Jurors are provided with meeting facilities, adjacent parking and a daily stipend of $50 for up to five days per week, according to the Orange County Grand Jury's website.

Applications submitted for grand jury service are reviewed by a selection committee of Superior Court judges. Applicants who are best qualified for the position will undergo a background check by the Orange County Sheriff's Department.

To serve on the county's grand jury, the applicant must be:

• A citizen of the United States
• 18 years of age or older
• A resident of Orange County for at least one year before being selected
• Possessing "natural faculties," ordinary intelligence, sound judgment and fair character
• Possessing knowledge of the English language

Residents can fill out an application to be considered for the county's watchdog panel by either filling out an online application through the county's website or by printing out an application and mailing it in.