What is the difference between an indictment and an information?

An indictment and an information are two different methods that are used to officially charge someone with a crime in the state of Oregon. An indictment is a document issued by a grand jury which contains accusations of criminal activity. It is usually used to prosecute more serious crimes such as homicide, armed robbery, and drug offenses. An information is also known as a prosecutor’s information and is filed by a prosecutor instead of a grand jury. It is usually used to prosecute less serious offenses such as white collar and other economic crimes, larceny, and fraud. The main difference between an indictment and an information is that an indictment requires a grand jury to hear evidence and make a decision as to whether there is sufficient evidence to accuse someone of a crime. On the other hand, an information does not require the same involvement of a grand jury and can be immediately filed in the court system. In some cases, an information can be filed against an individual before the grand jury has heard evidence. Another difference is that an indictment requires a unanimous vote from members of the grand jury while an information does not require approval from the grand jury. Generally speaking, an indictment is a more serious charge than an information because it requires more involvement from the legal system.

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What is the difference between an indictment and an information?

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