Grand Jury Indictment Meaning

Grand Jury Indictments: Understanding the U.S. Justice System

What is a Grand Jury?

A grand jury is a body of 23 citizens randomly selected to review evidence and determine whether there is probable cause to charge a person with a crime. Unlike trial juries, grand juries do not determine guilt or innocence.

The Grand Jury Process

The grand jury meets in secret without the presence of the defendant or their attorney. The prosecutor presents evidence to the grand jury, including witness testimony, physical evidence, and expert opinions. The grand jury deliberates in private and votes on whether to indict the defendant.

The Indictment

An indictment is a formal charging instrument issued by the grand jury if it finds probable cause to believe that the defendant committed a crime. The indictment states the charges against the defendant and outlines the specific allegations.

The indictment is not a finding of guilt. It simply means that the grand jury believes there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial.

When an Indictment is Issued

When the grand jury recommends an indictment, the defendant is arraigned in court. The defendant is informed of the charges and enters a plea of guilty or not guilty. A trial date is then set.

An indictment is a serious matter, but it is important to remember that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.