Virginia has Grand Jury on the opening day (the first Monday of every month) in Circuit Court. We have seen a serious uptick in criminal jury trials in the last year and half. For us, it is due to an influx of new Commonwealth Attorneys that do not seem to know their ass from their elbow. Even the shitty defense attorneys are kicking their collective asses in jury trials. It’s pathetic.
I’m aware of that but I’ve never heard of one in the State I’ve served in (WA). I guess it’s possible to convene one here too but I’ve never heard of it happening. I have always had a good relationship with our County Prosecuting Attorney’s offices and we have usually been in agreement on which cases should be prosecuted (although they have the final say). Several times over the years cases were dismissed at my request (after discussion with a Deputy Prosecutor) after more exculpatory evidence came to light. I’ve done my best to exercise good faith and I believe most Prosecutors do the same thing. I’ve also known a few good Judges over the years…
