Grand Juries: A Unique Aspect of the US Legal System

Understanding the Role of Laypeople in Criminal Indictments

Lead:

In a deviation from the norms of most legal systems worldwide, the United States and Liberia continue to utilize grand juries, a unique body of laypeople who play a crucial role in the criminal justice process.

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Grand juries are legal entities composed of citizens who are not professional legal experts. Their primary responsibility is to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to indict an individual with a crime. Unlike trial juries, grand juries do not determine guilt or innocence, but rather serve as a screening mechanism for criminal charges.

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Grand jury proceedings are typically confidential, with jurors sworn to secrecy. This privacy allows for a thorough investigation without jeopardizing the rights of the accused. In contrast, trial juries (also known as petit juries) are generally open to the public, with proceedings transparent and subject to scrutiny.

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Jury duty for a grand jury can be a lengthy process, with members potentially serving for months. However, they are typically required to appear in court only for a few days each month. While trial juries are used in both criminal and civil cases, grand juries are reserved exclusively for criminal matters.

Conclusion:

The grand jury system remains a distinctive feature of the US legal landscape, serving as a filter for criminal indictments. Its unique composition and private proceedings set it apart from other aspects of the justice system, contributing to its enduring role in the American criminal process.