Purpose & Mission of AGJA

The Alaska Grand Jurors Association is a organization that provides support and resources for current and prospective grand jurors in Alaska and is dedicated to promoting the fair and effective functioning of the grand jury system in Alaska. 

Our mission is to educate and inform the public about the role and responsibilities of grand jurors, to provide training and resources for current and prospective grand jurors, and to advocate for the grand jury system. We strive to ensure that the grand jury system is representative of the community, that grand jurors are properly trained and supported, and that grand jury proceedings are understood. Our ultimate goal is to contribute to the fair administration of justice for all citizens of Alaska.

Some of the specific functions of the Alaska Grand Jurors Association may include: representing grand jurors in the state of Alaska and safeguarding their legal rights; promoting public education about grand jury practice and procedure; sharing information among Alaskan courts, prosecutors, defense attorneys, criminal justice agencies and other interested parties regarding the important work of the grand jury system; providing a forum for discussion of related topics; and supporting legislative efforts to improve the grand jury system. 

AGJA also works to ensure that all grand jurors in Alaska are provided with the necessary tools, skills and training to effectively serve as grand jurors. We believe that we can make a positive difference in our state’s justice system by educating citizens about the vital role of the grand juror and advocating for just laws and regulations. 

Through our educational programming, we strive to keep grand jurors informed of changes in the law and best practices for conducting investigations. Additionally, we provide resources to assist grand jurors in making sound decisions that are consistent with the laws and regulations governing their service. We also support programs designed to foster an understanding of the justice system and its relationship to fairness and equity.

Some of the mission specific functions we’re looking to deliver include:

1. Providing training and educational materials: The association may provide training and educational materials to grand jurors, including information about the laws and procedures governing grand juries in Alaska, as well as best practices for conducting investigations and making decisions.
2. Facilitating communication and networking: The association may facilitate communication and networking among grand jurors, allowing them to share information and support each other in fulfilling their duties.
3. Advocating for the grand jury system: The association may advocate for the grand jury system in Alaska, working to ensure that it is fair and effective, and that grand jurors are properly trained and supported.
4. Providing legal references: The association may provide legal references to grand jurors, including case law and statutes that govern the grand jury system in Alaska, as well as any changes or updates in the laws.
5. Promoting transparency: The association may promote transparency and accountability in the grand jury system, ensuring that grand juries are representative of the community and that their proceedings are open to the public.
6. Encouraging participation: The association may encourage participation in the grand jury system, helping to recruit and retain qualified and dedicated grand jurors.
7. Hosting events and meetings: The association may host events and meetings, such as seminars or workshops, to provide training and networking opportunities for grand jurors and to raise awareness about the grand jury system.
8. Providing a forum for discussion and support: The association may provide a forum for grand jurors to discuss their experiences and to seek support from their peers.
9. Providing information to the public: The association may provide information to the public about the grand jury system and the role of grand jurors, to help educate and inform the public about this important aspect of the criminal justice system in Alaska.

It’s important to note that the specific functions of the Alaska Grand Jurors Association may vary from day to day depending on the association’s priorities, and that the association’s purpose may change over time as the organization evolves.