A grand experience

Shared by John Miller
Chief Development Officer, Venice Family Clinic, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA

I’ve always loved learning about new things, and work always has been one of my primary means of social engagement. Following retirement, I wanted to do something part time that would allow me to connect with interesting people while making a positive difference.

After learning that my county was seeking applications for persons to serve on its grand jury, I applied and was appointed.

All counties in California recruit civil grand juries which serve 12-month terms. In Orange County where I now live, the grand jury functions as a criminal grand jury as well. Civil grand juries act as the “public’s watchdog,” providing oversight of county and city governments and special districts, investigating wrongdoing, and issuing public reports. I have the opportunity to meet virtually all county-level elected officials and department heads, tour county facilities of every kind, examine the operations of all adult and juvenile detention facilities, and review all “in-custody” deaths.

I get to review every letter of complaint from ordinary citizens, as well as “whistleblowers.” Each grand jury is empowered to choose its own areas of investigation, including health and human services, the environment and ethics in government. Once we make a decision to proceed with an investigation, we have power of subpoena to talk with anyone we wish. Once we publish our findings, government officials, by law, must respond publicly to our findings and recommendations.

I care deeply about justice and our democratic institutions, and I am amazed at how much I learn every week. It’s a joy to work alongside committed citizens who share my passion as we address important issues our government and leaders face in these changing and challenging times.