Grand Jury Process In Maryland

Grand Jury Indictments: Understanding the Process

What is a Grand Jury?

A grand jury is a group of up to 23 people who are summoned to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to charge an individual with a crime. Unlike a trial jury, which decides the guilt or innocence of a defendant, a grand jury's role is to determine whether probable cause exists.

Steps of a Grand Jury Indictment

The grand jury process is confidential and typically involves the following steps:

1. Selection: Jurors are selected randomly from voter registration lists or other sources.
2. Presentation of Evidence: A prosecutor presents evidence to the grand jury, including witness testimony and documents.
3. Deliberation: The jurors deliberate in private and vote on whether to issue an indictment.
4. Indictment or No Bill: If the majority of jurors vote to indict, a formal indictment is issued. If not, a "no bill" is filed, indicating that there is insufficient evidence to proceed with charges.

Maryland's Grand Jury

In Maryland, the grand jury has an additional role as a protector of the public. It may be asked to examine situations such as public corruption or police misconduct.