What is the purpose of a criminal grand jury?

The purpose of a criminal grand jury in Virginia is to review evidence against a person who may have committed a crime and decide whether or not there is enough evidence to formally charge them with that crime. Grand juries are made up of citizens who are randomly chosen for the jury. The jurors are tasked with examining any evidence that may be presented to them by the prosecutor. This evidence can include witness testimony, physical evidence, and other types of evidence that support the accusation against the person. At the end of the proceedings, the grand jury can either decide that there is enough evidence for the accused to be formally charged with the crime or that there is not enough evidence and the case should be dropped. If the grand jury decides to indict the person, they are officially charged with the crime and put on trial for the charges. Grand juries serve an important role in the criminal justice system in Virginia as they ensure that all people accused of a crime receive fair treatment and that charges are only brought when there is reasonable cause. They also prevent prosecutors from bringing charges when there is not enough evidence for a conviction.

Related FAQs

What are the rules of evidence in criminal cases?
What is the difference between direct and circumstantial evidence?
What is the role of a judge in criminal proceedings?
What is the difference between a direct and an indirect concurrent sentence?
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
What is the difference between a bench trial and a jury trial?
What are the differences between direct and circumstantial evidence in criminal trials?
What is the difference between hearsay and direct evidence?
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
What is the difference between felony and misdemeanor sentencing?

What is the purpose of a criminal grand jury?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts