Houston County District Attorney

Guidelines

Practical Suggestions for Grand Jurors:

• Attend the sessions regularly and on time.
• If you are unable to attend, be sure to notify the foreperson or the district attorney’s office as the unexpected lack of a quorum causes great inconvenience.
• The oath should be administered to witnesses in an impressive manner, so that they will realize that it is a serious, judicial hearing, and they must tell the truth.
• Pay close attention to the testimony given and the evidence presented. The reputation and freedom of someone depends on what is being told.
• Be courteous to the witnesses and to your fellow jurors.
• Listen to the evidence and opinions of your fellow jurors but don’t be a rubber stamp.
• Be independent but not obstinate.
• All jurors have an equal voice in determining an indictment and each juror has the right to state his reasons for his or her views.
• Express your opinions but don’t be dictatorial. Every juror has a right to his or her own opinions. You may try to persuade other jurors, but do not try to force him or her to change his or her mind and agree with you. He or she might be right.
• Do not discuss cases with your fellow jurors or anyone else outside the jury room.
• Be absolutely fair. Every matter which you consider and every person who appears before you should be given equal treatment regardless of gender, racial or ethnic background, disability, sexual preference, age or ability to speak English.
• Wait until the district attorney, assistants, witness, interpreter or court reporter has left the room before you begin your deliberations or vote on an indictment or special presentment.
• A reckless grand jury can do as much harm to the community and to law enforcement as a weak grand jury.
• Your membership on the grand jury is a high honor. You are among a relatively small number of citizens of your community who are chosen to serve. Your response should be devoted, trustworthy participation in performing the duties of the grand jury. A humorous, but wise quotation attempting to summarize grand jury service is that "The grand jury should know the difference between sin and crime and act accordingly."

While the grand jury may appear to have considerable power and authority, the manner in which it can exercise its power and authority is strictly regulated by law and limited by the amount of time and resources that are available. Experience has taught that no single grand jury can do everything that the law allows them to do.