Grand Jury
A grand jury is a panel of citizens that hears evidence about alleged crimes and decides whether probable cause supports bringing an indictment. In the federal system, its proceedings are secret, and prosecutors present evidence to it.
A grand jury is a panel of citizens that hears evidence about alleged crimes and decides whether probable cause supports bringing an indictment. In the federal system, its proceedings are secret, and prosecutors present evidence to it.
Example: In 1973, three federal grand juries were at work in Washington on investigations related to the Watergate affair.
Common misconception: An indictment is not a verdict of guilt; it is a formal charge that allows a case to proceed to trial. A trial jury, not the grand jury, renders a verdict on matters of fact.
Sources: Glossary of Legal Terms – United States Courts; Reporting on Criminal Cases – Journalist’s Guide; 1973: Judge John J. Sirica, from the TIME archive; The Federal Grand Jury