An indictment is a formal written accusation that a person has committed a crime. It is usually issued by a grand jury after they review evidence presented by a prosecutor and determine there is enough probable cause to proceed with criminal charges. Being indicted means there is enough evidence to formally charge someone and start the legal process, but it does not mean that the person is guilty. Instead, it initiates criminal proceedings to allow the accused to defend themselves in court.
How Indictments Work
- A prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury, a group of citizens who decide if there is sufficient evidence or probable cause.
- If the grand jury agrees, they issue an indictment, also called a "true bill," formally accusing the person of a crime.
- This step is generally for serious crimes (felonies) and triggers the criminal case against the accused.
- The accused may then be arrested or summoned to court.
- An indictment is not a conviction or proof of guilt, just an official charge that leads to trial.
Summary
An indictment is the legal term for a formal accusation of a crime by a grand jury, signaling that there is enough evidence to bring the accused to trial. It begins the criminal process but does not equate to guilt.
