If the grand jury finds the evidence insufficient, they issue a “no bill,” and the charges are dismissed. However, they may choose to downgrade the offense, which could result in the case being sent to municipal court for lesser charges.
If the majority of the 23 jurors vote to indict, the defendant must face further criminal proceedings in the Superior Court. This is known as a "true bill."
No. Neither the defendant nor their attorney is present. Witnesses, however, may testify regarding the alleged crime.
No. The grand jury does not determine guilt or innocence. They only decide whether there is enough evidence to move forward with criminal charges.
A grand jury is a group of citizens selected from voter registrations, driver’s licenses, and tax lists. Their role is to review evidence presented by the county prosecutor and determine if there is enough proof to formally charge someone with a crime.