
investigative grand jury
An investigative grand jury is a special type of jury that helps prosecutors gather information about possible criminal activity. Unlike a regular jury that decides guilt or innocence, an investigative grand jury reviews evidence and questions witnesses to determine if there is enough evidence to charge someone with a crime. It operates in secret, allowing witnesses to speak freely without concern for public pressure or retaliation. If the grand jury finds sufficient evidence, it issues an indictment, officially accusing someone of a crime and allowing a criminal case to proceed in court.