What is a Grand Jury?
An Overview of the Grand Jury System
Definition and Purpose
A grand jury is a panel of citizens who investigate alleged criminal conduct and decide whether to indict. In the United States, grand juries play a significant role in the criminal justice system.
Composition and Selection
Grand juries are typically composed of 12 to 23 people who are randomly selected from the community. They serve for a predetermined period, usually several months, and are responsible for examining evidence and hearing testimony related to alleged crimes.
Functions and Role
The primary function of a grand jury is to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the accused person should stand trial. They hear evidence presented by the prosecution, but do not hear from the defense or the accused.
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