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Grand Jury Process in Federal Court Explained
Understanding the Role of Grand Juries
In federal court, the grand jury process plays a crucial role in determining whether a criminal prosecution should proceed. Unlike a trial jury, which decides the guilt or innocence of a defendant, a grand jury focuses solely on evaluating the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Private Proceedings
Unlike trial juries, grand jury proceedings are typically conducted in private. This allows the jurors to deliberate freely and without any external influence. The public is not generally permitted to attend grand jury hearings, and the evidence presented remains confidential.
Assessment of Evidence
The primary function of a grand jury is to assess the evidence presented by the prosecutor. The prosecutor's goal is to demonstrate that there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the defendant is the likely perpetrator. If the grand jury agrees with the prosecutor's arguments, it will issue an indictment, which formally charges the defendant with a crime.
Role of the Foreman
The grand jury is led by a foreman, who is responsible for managing the proceedings and facilitating discussions. The foreman also signs the indictment if the grand jury votes to indict the defendant.
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