When you are indicted, it means you have been formally accused of a serious crime, usually a felony, by a grand jury. This is not a conviction or proof of guilt, but an official charge that allows the legal process to proceed. After indictment:
- The court issues an arrest warrant if you are not already in custody.
- You will have an initial appearance before a judge, where you are informed of the charges and your rights.
- An arraignment follows, during which you will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- The judge may set bail or other release conditions or decide to detain you pretrial based on factors like flight risk and danger to the community.
- The case then moves toward trial, where evidence is presented and guilt is determined beyond a reasonable doubt.
- If convicted, sentencing occurs; if acquitted, you are freed.
- You have the right to appeal following conviction.
The indictment initiates the formal criminal justice process, with legal proceedings moving toward trial and resolution.
