Recruitment for the 2026-27 Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury Begins

SAN JOSÉ, California (December 2, 2025): Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede of the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, is inviting civic-minded residents to apply for service on the 2026–27 Civil Grand Jury, a cornerstone of government transparency, accountability, and public oversight.

Recruitment for the upcoming Civil Grand Jury term will officially open on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with applications due by Friday, March 27, 2026.

The Civil Grand Jury is an independent investigatory body convened annually to examine the operations of county and city government, school districts, special districts, and other local public agencies. Under the Court’s direction, grand jurors are empowered to review records, evaluate government programs, inspect detention facilities, and issue findings and recommendations that promote ethical, efficient, and transparent governance.

Presiding Judge Emede emphasized the importance of serving on the Civil Grand Jury, “Serving on the Civil Grand Jury offers residents a meaningful way to contribute to the strength of our democratic institutions. Jurors gain a deep understanding of local government while providing thoughtful recommendations that enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust. It is one of the most impactful forms of civic engagement available to members of our community.”

Eligibility & Time Commitment

Applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be United States citizens
• Be residents of Santa Clara County
• Possess sufficient knowledge of the English language
• Not currently hold an elected office or be serving on a trial jury
•  

Jurors typically commit an average of 25 hours per week throughout the one-year term.
The 2026–27 Civil Grand Jury will serve from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.

How to Apply

Beginning December 2, 2025, applications and informational materials — including the Civil Grand Jury brochure and online application — will be available on the Court’s website.

For questions or additional information, please contact Britney Huelbig, Deputy Court Manager for the Civil Grand Jury, at 408-882-2721 or CGJ@scscourt.org.

The deadline to apply is Friday, March 27, 2026.

Residents are encouraged to apply and take part in this vital public service that strengthens community oversight and confidence in local government.