Court-run civic programs and application opportunities
County Civic Opportunities
The Santa Clara County Superior Court continues to lead by example in fostering civic engagement, transparency, and community accountability through multiple dynamic programs and recent local government initiatives. As the Court opens applications for the 2026-27 Civil Grand Jury and launches the 2026 Law Day student contest, these efforts are complemented by the Board of Supervisors’ establishment of the Measure A Citizens' Oversight Committee. Together, these developments reflect a county-wide commitment to empowering residents and students as active participants in shaping transparent and responsive governance.
Applications Now Open for the 2026-27 Civil Grand Jury
The Superior Court invites Santa Clara County residents to apply for the 2026-27 Civil Grand Jury, an independent panel that plays a vital role in scrutinizing county government operations, investigating public complaints, auditing services, and issuing reports aimed at improving government efficiency and accountability.
Key Eligibility and Commitment Details:
- Residency: Must be a resident of Santa Clara County for at least one year
- Age & Citizenship: At least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen
- Term: One-year commitment beginning in 2026
- Responsibilities: Regular meetings to review government activities, conduct investigations, and draft findings and recommendations
Applications are accepted online through the Superior Court’s official website and Civil Grand Jury portal. Serving on the Civil Grand Jury offers a unique opportunity to influence local government transparency directly. Previous juries have made impactful recommendations on issues such as county contracting practices, public health, and infrastructure improvements, demonstrating the panel’s critical role in promoting effective governance.
2026 Law Day Student Contest: Cultivating Youth Civic Awareness
Aligned with adult civic engagement efforts, the Court is also encouraging middle and high school students across Santa Clara County to participate in the 2026 Law Day contest. This annual competition challenges students to explore the role of law in society and express their insights creatively.
- Who Can Participate: All middle and high school students residing in Santa Clara County
- Submission Formats: Essays, artwork, videos, and other creative media aligned with the 2026 Law Day theme (details available on the Court’s website)
- Deadlines & Guidelines: Contest rules, themes, and submission deadlines are fully outlined online to assist student participants
The contest serves as a platform for youth to deepen their understanding of legal principles and develop a lifelong sense of civic responsibility, helping to nurture the next generation of informed and engaged community members.
New Oversight Initiative: Measure A Citizens' Oversight Committee Established
In a significant stride toward enhanced transparency, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors recently approved an ordinance creating the Measure A Citizens' Oversight Committee. This citizen-led committee is charged with monitoring the implementation and use of Measure A funds—resources dedicated to addressing vital community needs.
- The Committee will ensure transparent and responsible use of Measure A funds, provide regular reports to the Board of Supervisors, and act as a public resource for accountability.
- This new body complements the Civil Grand Jury by adding a focused, citizen-driven layer of oversight concerning a specific funding measure, thereby strengthening public trust in local government stewardship.
Supervisor Cindy Chavez emphasized at the ordinance’s approval, “Establishing the Measure A Citizens' Oversight Committee empowers residents to have a direct voice in how taxpayer dollars are spent, reinforcing our commitment to open and accountable government.”
Broader Context: The State of the County of Santa Clara 2026
These programs and initiatives align with overarching county efforts described in the recent State of the County of Santa Clara 2026 address. The County continues to prioritize strengthening communities through transparency, effective governance, and civic participation.
The address underscores how initiatives like the Civil Grand Jury, Law Day contest, and Measure A Oversight Committee fit into a broader strategy to engage residents at all levels—adults and youth alike—in government processes and decision-making. This holistic approach supports the County’s goal to build trust, improve public services, and foster collaboration between government and the community.
Promoting a Culture of Civic Participation and Transparency
Santa Clara County’s comprehensive civic engagement framework offers a multi-faceted approach for residents and students to actively participate in government oversight and legal education:
- Civil Grand Jury: A vital mechanism for independent investigation and accountability
- Law Day Student Contest: An educational platform inspiring youth to explore law and civic responsibility
- Measure A Citizens' Oversight Committee: A focused citizen body ensuring transparent use of local funds
Together, these programs empower community members to increase their understanding of government, influence public policy, and ensure that governance remains transparent and responsive to public needs.
How to Get Involved
Residents and students interested in these opportunities are encouraged to:
- Visit the Santa Clara County Superior Court’s website for Civil Grand Jury applications and Law Day contest details: https://www.scscourt.org
- Learn more about the Measure A Citizens' Oversight Committee and related resources on the Board of Supervisors’ site: https://www.sccgov.org
- Engage actively in these programs to contribute meaningfully to the county’s civic life and governance
By participating, community members not only deepen their knowledge of local government but also play an essential role in upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in Santa Clara County.
Engage now to make a meaningful difference in the future of Santa Clara County’s civic landscape!