Grand Juries: An Overview
Purpose and Function
A grand jury is a legal body composed of laypeople empowered to investigate potential criminal conduct and determine whether criminal charges should be filed. Unlike trial juries, which decide guilt or innocence, grand juries do not make final determinations on criminal liability.
Powers and Responsibilities
Grand juries possess broad powers, including the authority to:
- Examine evidence presented by prosecutors
- Hear testimony from witnesses
- Issue subpoenas to compel testimony or production of documents
- Determine whether there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed
- Indict (formally charge) individuals with criminal offenses if probable cause is found
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