What is the function of a grand jury?

The function of a grand jury is to determine if there is enough evidence to justify charging an individual with a crime, which is reflected in the choice regarding the grand jury's role in evaluating whether to issue an indictment. This process is crucial because it acts as a preliminary step in the criminal justice system, ensuring that individuals are not subjected to prosecution without sufficient evidence.

Grand juries do not participate in the trial phase of a criminal case, which is why determining guilt or innocence, hearing appeals from lower courts, or advising judges on sentencing is not part of their responsibilities. Instead, they focus solely on examining evidence presented by prosecutors to ascertain whether there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed, leading to criminal charges. If the grand jury finds enough evidence, they will issue an indictment, allowing the case to move forward to trial.