Qualifications
Prospective Grand Jurors must possess the following qualifications (Penal Code 893):
- Be a citizen of the United States of the age of 18 years or older who shall have been a resident of the state and of the county for one year immediately before being selected.
- Be in possession of his or her natural faculties, of ordinary intelligence, sound judgment, and fair character.
- Possess sufficient knowledge of the English language.
- The person is serving as a trial juror in any court in this State.
- The person has been discharged as a Grand Juror in any court of this State within one year.
- The person has been convicted of a malfeasance in office or any felony or other high crime.
- The person is serving as an elected public officer.
- Have the time to make the necessary commitment. It is not uncommon to serve 10 to 15 hours a week or more.
- Be open-minded with concern for the positions and views of others.
- Have the ability to work with others.
- Have an interest in community affairs.
- Possess investigative skills and an ability to write reports.
- Have a general knowledge of the functions, authorities, and responsibilities of county and city government and other civil entities.