What Grand Juries Do
Overview
A grand jury is a group of citizens empowered by law to conduct legal proceedings, primarily investigating potential criminal conduct. Unlike a trial jury, a grand jury does not determine guilt or innocence but rather determines whether there is sufficient evidence to issue an indictment, which is a formal accusation that an individual has committed a crime.
Role in the Criminal Process
Grand juries play an essential role in the criminal justice system by:
- Reviewing evidence presented by the prosecution
- Evaluating the strength of the evidence
- Determining if there is probable cause to believe the accused has committed a crime
- Issuing indictments if they find sufficient evidence
Secrecy and Confidentiality
Grand jury proceedings are typically held in secret, with only the jurors, the prosecutor, and the court reporter present. This is to protect the integrity of the investigation and preserve the confidentiality of the proceedings.
Selection and Term
Grand jurors are selected from a pool of eligible citizens and serve for a specific term, typically several months to a year. Their selection is done to ensure a fair and impartial panel that represents the community.
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