What are the requirements for federal grand jury proceedings?

Federal grand jury proceedings are hearings held to decide whether or not a person should be formally charged with a federal crime. In New Mexico, the grand jury process is governed by a federal statute known as the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Under the federal rules, a grand jury must consist of sixteen to twenty-three citizens who are citizens of the United States and of the state of New Mexico. All potential jurors must be randomly selected from eligible lists maintained by the court. Jurors must be capable of understanding and interpreting the evidence presented to them and must be impartial. To convene a grand jury, the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico must first direct a court clerk or other authorized officer to issue a grand jury summons to eligible citizens in the county where the grand jury will be held. The summons must direct potential jurors to appear at a given time and place to hear evidence or testimony and determine whether there is probable cause to believe that an individual has committed an offense under federal law. Once convened, the grand jury will hear evidence and testimony presented by government prosecutors. Witnesses may be called to testify before the grand jury, and the grand jury may also examine relevant documents or other evidence. After hearing the evidence, the grand jury must decide if there is probable cause to believe that the accused has committed the crime. If the grand jury finds probable cause, they will issue a formal indictment. If not, they will return a no bill.

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What are the requirements for federal grand jury proceedings?

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