(Yolo County) New supervising judge for Yolo Grand Jury

- DailyDemocrat.com
Yolo Superior Court announced that effective July 1, Judge Dan Maguire is designated as the Yolo County Grand Jury Supervising Judge.

Assistant Presiding Judge Steven Basha stated, "Judge Maguire is an excellent choice for this important role because of his leadership skills and commitment to the community."

Maguire was appointed to the Yolo Superior Court bench in 2010 by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Prior to his appointment, he worked as a deputy legal affairs secretary in the Governor's Office, and before that he maintained a private law practice in Yolo County. He earned a Juris Doctorate degree from Harvard University Law School after completing his undergraduate work at Stanford University. He was admitted to the State Bar of California in December, 1997.

The primary civil function of the grand jury, acting as an entirely independent body, is to review the operations of city and county government as well as other tax supported agencies and special districts. The grand jury also investigates complaints from private citizens, local government officials or government employees. Based on the reviews and investigations, the grand jury publishes its findings and may recommend constructive action to improve the quality and effectiveness of local government.

Another responsibility of the grand jury is to consider criminal indictments based on evidence presented.

"I am honored to act as the Supervising Judge for the Yolo County Grand Jury," stated Judge Maguire. "The grand jury is a venerable institution with roots tracing back hundreds of years, but it is still a vital part of our democratic process, and it provides valuable citizen oversight of our government."

For more information about the grand jury or an application to serve on the 2012-13 Yolo County Grand Jury, see the Yolo Superior Court's website at www.yolo.courts.ca.gov or call 406-6828. Applications are due May 11.