Grand Juries vs. Trial Juries: Their Roles in the Criminal Justice System
Understanding Their Distinct Functions
In the intricate web of the criminal justice system, grand juries and trial juries play separate but equally crucial roles in determining the fate of individuals accused of crimes.
Grand Juries: Indictment Process
A grand jury is a body of citizens authorized to investigate potential criminal conduct and determine whether an indictment - a formal accusation - should be filed against a suspect. They examine evidence gathered by law enforcement and evaluate whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime was committed and that the suspect is responsible.
Trial Juries: Verdict Determination
In contrast to grand juries, trial juries are responsible for rendering the final verdict in a criminal trial. They are presented with evidence from both the prosecution and the defense and deliberate until they reach a unanimous decision. Their verdict determines whether the accused is found guilty or not guilty of the charges.
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