Grand Jury Meaning In English

Grand Jury: Meaning and Function

Definition of Grand Jury

A grand jury is a jury composed of citizens, typically between 12 and 23 members, who are summoned to investigate potential criminal conduct and determine whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant a formal indictment.

Role of the Grand Jury

The grand jury is an important part of the criminal justice system in the United States. Its primary function is to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that a person has committed a crime. If the grand jury finds probable cause, it will issue an indictment, which is a formal accusation that authorizes the prosecution to proceed with a trial.

Confidentiality and Independence

Grand jury proceedings are typically confidential, and grand jurors are not allowed to discuss the details of their investigations or deliberations with anyone outside the jury room. This confidentiality helps to protect the rights of the accused and to ensure that the grand jury's deliberations are free from outside influence.

Summoning and Selection of Grand Jurors

Grand jurors are typically selected from a pool of registered voters in the jurisdiction where the grand jury is convened. They are chosen based on their impartiality and ability to serve diligently on the jury.

The Process of Indictment

The grand jury's investigation typically begins with a presentation of evidence by the prosecutor, who is responsible for gathering evidence and presenting it to the grand jury. The prosecutor may present witnesses, documents, and other evidence to support the allegations against the accused.

The grand jury then deliberates in secret to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to support an indictment. If the grand jury votes to indict, the accused person is formally charged with the crime and the trial process can begin.

Challenges to Grand Jury Proceedings

In some cases, the accused person may challenge the validity of the grand jury proceedings. Such challenges can allege irregularities in the selection of the grand jurors, improper conduct by the prosecutor, or a lack of evidence to support an indictment.