In 2305 we simply looked at grand juries in terms of the procedures put in place to limit the arbitrary actions of governing officials.
In 2306 we looked at them a bit more in-depth since we look at the criminal justice system more carefully there.
Here are a few stories that have been published about grand juries in the past few weeks:
Should Texas abolish rather than reform grand juries?
- Grits for Breakfast points out legislation introduced to change how grand juries operate in the state, but wonders more broadly whether they ought to just be abolished.
Whitmire would eliminate 'key man' system for grand juries.
- The Houston Senator prefers a system where jurors are selected from the jury pool.
Is it Time to Ditch Texas' Key Man Grand Jury System?
- The "key man system" is also referred to as pick-a-pal. The author points out that Governor Perry was indicted by a grand jury that was randomly selected, a method she argues is superior.
England abolished grand juries decades ago because they didn't work.
- Too much discretion given to a district attorney.
- The article points out that no judge is present - and only the prosecutor presents evidence, Which is why grand juries usually issue indictment.
How Does a Grand Jury Work?
- Here's similar - probably better - information from FindLaw.
Lone Star grand jury selection and independence.
- And yet more background from the a governmental interest group - the Texas District & County Attorneys Association.
Another Jasper case, another pick-a-pal grand jury.
- A story from our general area.
