What is the difference between a federal indictment and an information?

The main difference between a federal indictment and an information is that a federal indictment is a formal charge issued by a grand jury, while an information is a formal complaint filed directly by the prosecuting attorney. In Florida, a federal indictment can be brought by a grand jury when they find that probable cause exists to charge a person with a federal crime. This is done after the grand jury hears evidence presented by the United States Attorney General or an Assistant United States Attorney. The indictment is a written statement signed by the grand jury foreperson that lists the charges that the person faces. The accused person still has the right to a trial, however, and is presumed innocent until proven guilty. An information, on the other hand, is a formal complaint that is filed directly by the prosecuting attorney without involving a grand jury. An information is usually used when the accused person waives their right to a grand jury hearing and signs an agreement to resolve the case through a plea agreement. An information contains the same information as an indictment, including the charges and any other relevant information. Ultimately, the difference between a federal indictment and an information is that a federal indictment is issued by a grand jury while an information is filed by the prosecuting attorney directly. In Florida, the decision to use an indictment or an information depends on the situation and the wishes of the accused person.

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