What is the role of the Grand Jury in the legal process?

The Grand Jury plays a crucial role in the legal process by determining whether there is sufficient evidence to bring a criminal case to trial. This body is composed of citizens who review evidence presented by the prosecutor to decide if probable cause exists that a crime has been committed and that the accused should be formally charged. If the Grand Jury concludes that there is enough evidence, they will issue an indictment, allowing the case to proceed to trial. Their function is not to establish guilt or innocence, nor do they engage in reviewing appeals or provide legal representation for defendants. Rather, their primary focus is on assessing the validity of the charges before trial. This critical step helps protect individuals from unfounded legal actions and ensures that only cases with sufficient evidence move forward in the judicial system.