BOUNTIFUL — A panel of judges is scheduled to meet here on May 6, to hear testimony to determine if reasonable cause exists to call a grand jury.

The meeting will take place in the 2nd Judicial District, Bountiful Courthouse, 805 South Main St.

Utah’s Grand Jury Statute requires a panel of judges selected from throughout the state to hold hearings in each judicial district every three years to determine if a grand jury needs to be summoned based on evidence of criminal activity.

Those wanting to testify before the judges should contact District Court Administrator Debra Moore at (801) 578-3800 by April 26, 2010, to schedule an appointment.

If no appointments are scheduled by April 26, the judges’ meeting will be canceled without further notice.

Individuals testifying must be prepared to give evidence to support claims that justify calling a grand jury. Controversies between individual parties will not be considered.

Individuals who need special accommodations during the hearing must notify the court at least three business days prior to the hearing.

The Grand Jury panel is comprised of the following judges: Supervising Judge A. Lynn Payne, 8th District Court; Judge Terry L. Christiansen, 3rd District Court; Judge Steven L. Hansen, 4th District Court; Judge Sandra N. Peuler, 3rd District Court; and Judge W. Brent West, 2nd District Court.

The Attorney General, a county attorney, district attorney, or special prosecutor appointed can also present evidence of criminal activity.

The judges will hear, in secret, all persons claiming information that justifies calling a grand jury. All individuals appearing before the judges will be placed under oath.

If a grand jury is summoned, the jurors will be called from the state-at-large or any judicial district within the state.

mwilliams@davisclipper.com