What is the difference between a grand jury and a trial jury in criminal defense law?

A grand jury and a trial jury are two different types of juries used in criminal defense law in Kansas. Both serve as a group of citizens that determine the facts of a case or decide whether a person should be charged for a crime. A grand jury is made up of at least four but no more than seven citizens who are gathered to hear evidence presented by the prosecuting attorney in the case. This jury will then decide if there is enough evidence to formally charge a person with a crime. A grand jury does not decide the outcome of the case - instead, it is a very important step in the criminal process and it is very rare for a grand jury to decide against bringing an indictment. A trial jury, on the other hand, is a group of citizens that will listen to evidence presented by both sides in an effort to decide if a person is guilty or not guilty of a crime. This jury hears both sides of a case and can decide whether a person is guilty or innocent based on the evidence presented. This jury also has the power to set sentences or punishments if the person is found guilty. In short, the difference between a grand jury and a trial jury in criminal defense law in Kansas is that a grand jury hears evidence to determine if someone should be formally charged with a crime and a trial jury hears evidence to make a decision as to the guilt or innocence of someone charged with a crime.

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What is the difference between a grand jury and a trial jury in criminal defense law?

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