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What is your Solano County Grand Jury?

The Grand Jury is an investigatory body and part of the judicial branch of government. Both the United States and the California Constitutions call for grand juries.

Unlike a Trial Jury, which exists only to try an individual case, the Solano County Grand Jury is a permanent body with members serving one year terms.

The three primary functions of the Grand Jury are:

  • to be a watchdog over local government
  • to investigate citizen complaints about public agencies and officials
  • to occasionally investigate criminal matter when requested by the District Attorney

In the course of its investigations, the Grand Jury may hire independent auditors and subpoena witnesses and documents. The Jury may ask advice of Legal Counsel on civil matters, confer with the District Attorney on criminal matters, and discuss problems with the Judges of the Superior Court.

Civil Responsibilities

The Grand Jury may examine all aspects of county and city government and special districts to ensure that the best interest of the citizens are being served. The Grand Jury reviews and evaluates procedures, methods, and systems used by the county government for efficiency and economy.

The Grand Jury is divided into committees which concentrate on certain departments or functions of local government. Committees may include:

  • Audit, Finance and County Administration
  • Criminal Justice
  • Environmental and Land Planning
  • Library and Education
  • Health and Social Services
  • Special Districts and Legislative Review
  • Transportation and Public Buildings
  • Ad Hoc (various)

The Grand Jury is authorized to:

  • Inspect and audit books and records to ensure legal expenditures and accounting of public funds.
  • Inquire into the conditions of prisons, jails, and detention centers in Solano County
  • Inquire into charges of willful misconduct in office by public officials or employees
  • Subpoena witnesses and documents in the course of an investigation.

Grand Jury Reports

Grand Jury investigations are contained in early release reports and in the annual Final Report. The Report contains all findings and recommendations made as a result of the investigation and is distributed to public officials, libraries, and the general public through the news media.

Click here for copies of previous Grand Jury Reports and Responses from the Affected Agencies.

Citizen Complaints

As part of its civil function, the Grand Jury receives written complaints from citizens alleging inefficiencies and misconduct in government, or mistreatment by public officials.

Complaints received from citizens are investigated for their validity. Such complaints are kept confidential and members of the Grand Jury frequently rely on information from concerned citizens who are aware of problems, and who are willing to pursue corrective action.

If the situation warrants, and the matter is under the jurisdiction of the Grand Jury, appropriate action is taken. That action may be a report or a recommendation for civil action.

Click here for information about filing a Citizen Complaint.

How can I become a Grand Juror?

Each year the Solano County Superior Court Judges identify qualified citizens who might serve on the Grand Jury. Nominations for prospective jurors are made by the Judges themselves and other public elected officials.

Click here for information on becoming a Grand Juror.