California Civil Grand Juries
CGJ
Summary
California's civil grand jury system is established by Penal Code §§ 888-925.5 and operates independently in all 58 counties. Each county empanels a 19-member civil grand jury annually (July-June). Jurors are selected by the presiding Superior Court judge from a pool of qualified nominees. Juries investigate county agencies, special districts, and school districts, issuing reports with findings and recommendations. Public agencies must respond in writing to each finding and recommendation within 60-90 days. California's civil grand jury system is among the most active in the United States, with 58 juries producing over 200 reports annually.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Judicial appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 1 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- California Penal Code §§ 888-925
- Citation
- Cal. Penal Code §§ 888-925.5; California Constitution Art. I § 23
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Statewide framework operating in all 58 California counties via independent county-level civil grand juries. Each jury investigates county government operations, special districts, and school districts within its county. Subject matter jurisdiction: audits, investigations, and reports on local government efficiency, fiscal management, and operations under Cal. Penal Code §§ 888-925.5.