Grand Juries and Trial Juries: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Roles in the Legal System
What is a Grand Jury?
A grand jury is a legal body composed of laypeople who determine whether there is sufficient evidence to indict a person for a crime. Grand juries investigate potential criminal activity, gather evidence, and issue indictments if they believe there is probable cause that a crime has been committed.
Key Features and Responsibilities of Grand Juries
- Composed of 16-23 laypeople.
- Convene for a period of one month to one year.
- Proceedings are held in secret.
- Investigate potential criminal activity through interviews, document review, and evidence gathering.
- Issue indictments if there is probable cause that a crime has been committed.
What is a Trial Jury?
A trial jury is common in both criminal and civil cases. It is a group of laypeople who are selected to listen to evidence presented in court and determine the guilt or innocence of a defendant in a criminal case or the liability of a party in a civil case.
Key Features and Responsibilities of Trial Juries
- Composed of 6-12 laypeople.
- Selected through a process of questioning and screening by attorneys.
- Sworn to be impartial and to follow the instructions of the judge.
- Listen to evidence, question witnesses, and deliberate on a verdict.
- Render a verdict based on the evidence presented.
Differences Between Grand Juries and Trial Juries
Grand juries and trial juries have distinct roles and procedures. Grand juries are involved in the pre-trial phase, determining if there is enough evidence to bring criminal charges against a person. Trial juries are involved in the trial phase, determining the guilt or innocence of a defendant or the liability of a party.
Duration of Service
WEB Grand jurors generally serve up to 18 months but can serve for up to 24 months if an extension is granted by a judge.
Confidentiality
Grand jury proceedings are private and confidential. The public is not allowed to attend, and jurors are sworn to secrecy. In contrast, trial juries generally operate in open court, and the public is allowed to observe the proceedings.
Role in the Legal Process
Grand juries are used to determine if there is enough evidence to indict a person for a crime. Trial juries are used to determine the guilt or innocence of a defendant or the liability of a party.
Conclusion
Grand juries and trial juries are both essential components of the legal system. Grand juries help ensure that individuals are not charged with crimes without sufficient evidence, while trial juries ensure that defendants and parties receive fair and impartial trials.
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