Grand Juries: Understanding Their Role and Impact
The Basics of a Grand Jury
A grand jury is a legal body composed of laypeople, typically between 12 and 23 individuals. Its primary purpose is to determine whether or not there is enough evidence to indict an individual for a crime. Unlike trial juries, grand jury proceedings are private, and the identities of the jurors are kept confidential.
The Process of a Grand Jury Investigation
A grand jury is convened by a prosecutor who presents evidence and witnesses to support the allegations against the accused. The jurors hear the evidence and question the witnesses without the presence of the accused or their attorney. After hearing all the evidence, the jury deliberates in private and votes on whether or not to indict the accused. An indictment requires a majority vote of the jurors.
Does a Grand Jury Indictment Mean a Criminal Conviction?
It's important to note that a grand jury indictment does not necessarily mean that the accused will be convicted of a crime. The indictment simply indicates that there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial. The accused is still presumed innocent and has the right to a fair trial by a trial jury.
The Role of a Trial Jury
In contrast to a grand jury, a trial jury is common in both criminal and civil cases. The trial jury hears the evidence and witnesses presented by both the prosecution and the defense. The jury deliberates in private and must reach a unanimous or near-unanimous verdict for a conviction or acquittal.
Conclusion
Grand juries play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by providing an independent assessment of the evidence against an accused individual. However, it's essential to remember that an indictment is not a conviction, and the accused maintains the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt by a trial jury.
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