Santa Clara County Superior Court Announces 2026–2027 Civil Grand Jury Empanelment Ceremony
SAN JOSÉ, CA (May 28, 2026): The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara has announced the upcoming discharge of the 2025–2026 Civil Grand Jury and the empanelment of the 2026–2027 Civil Grand Jury. Following the Court’s annual recruitment and selection process, 19 community members will be selected to serve on the incoming Civil Grand Jury for the 2026–2027 term.
The Civil Grand Jury serves as an independent investigative body of the Court and is responsible for reviewing and examining the operations of Santa Clara County government, including cities, special districts, and other public agencies. Civil Grand Jurors are selected through an application and nomination process conducted by the Superior Court and serve one-year volunteer terms dedicated to promoting government transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
“Civil Grand Jury service provides residents with a unique opportunity to engage directly in civic oversight and help strengthen public trust in local government,” said Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede. “The Court deeply appreciates the time, commitment, and public service demonstrated by both our outgoing and incoming grand jurors.”
Throughout their term, Civil Grand Jurors contribute significant volunteer hours conducting investigations, reviewing government operations, and issuing findings and recommendations pursuant to California law. Their work plays an important role in supporting accountability and improving public service throughout Santa Clara County.
To recognize the service of the outgoing panel and welcome the newly selected jurors, the Court invites members of the public to attend the Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury Ceremony on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. The ceremony will honor and discharge the 2025–2026 Civil Grand Jury and formally empanel the 2026–2027 Civil Grand Jury panel.
The ceremony will be presented by Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede. Community members interested in attending are encouraged to register by June 10, 2026. Additional information is available through email or by calling 408-882-2721.