Grand Jury

The Civil Grand Jury has two responsibilities: to act as a civil watchdog conducting investigations and to answer citizen complaints.

Functions of the Grand Jury

The Grand Jury, as mandated by the California Constitution, is part of the Judicial Branch and is an arm of the Court. The Civil Grand Jury has two responsibilities: to act as a civil watchdog conducting investigations and to answer citizen complaints.

The Grand Jury investigates city and county government, as well as special districts, to ensure the interests of Amador County citizens are being served. County government procedures, methods and systems are reviewed and evaluated to determine if more efficient and economical programs might be employed.

The Grand Jury issues final reports on county government operations. The reports describe problems encountered and make recommendations for solutions. The County board of Supervisors and/or the affected agencies or districts must comment on these recommendations.

The Grand Jury is required to:

• Evaluate conditions of jails and detention centers within the county.

The Grand Jury is also authorized to:

• Inspect and audit county books, ensuring that public funds are properly and legally accounted for.
• Investigate and report on the performances of special districts or commissions.
• Investigate charges of willful misconduct by public officials or employees.
• Investigate and report on "questionable business practices" of such agencies.

As part of the civil function, the Grand Jury receives letters from citizens alleging mistreatment by officials, suspicions of misconduct or government inefficiencies. While the complaints are kept confidential, they are acknowledged and investigated for their validity. If needed, a recommendation for corrective action can be made under the Grand Jury's jurisdiction.