What is the difference between a grand jury and a petit jury?

A grand jury and a petit jury are two different types of jury in Arizona. A grand jury is a group of nine to twelve citizens that decide if there is enough evidence to charge an individual with a crime. If the grand jury decides that there is probable cause to believe that the person committed a crime, then they will issue an indictment. A petit jury, also known as a trial jury, is a much larger group of people. This type of jury is made up of at least six and usually as many as twelve people. A petit jury is called upon to determine if the person accused of a crime is guilty or not guilty. If the petit jury decides that the accused is guilty, then the judge will issue the sentence. The grand jury and petit jury both have the same goal in mind which is to determine if a person is guilty of a crime, but they have different ways of accomplishing that goal. The grand jury is used to decide if there is enough evidence to charge an individual with a crime, while a petit jury is used to determine if the accused is guilty or not guilty.

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