New York State Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is a grand jury?

1. A small group deciding civil cases

2. An official body examining evidence on offenses

3. A jury that determines guilt or innocence

4. A group assessing the need for legal reforms

The correct answer is: An official body examining evidence on offenses

A grand jury is an official body that examines evidence presented to it and determines whether there is enough probable cause to formally charge someone with a crime or bring a case to trial. This process is a crucial part of the criminal justice system, as it acts as a check on prosecutorial power, ensuring that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with criminal charges. Typically, a grand jury is larger than a regular trial jury and does not determine guilt or innocence; instead, its role is to assess the evidence and decide if there is enough justification to indict a suspect. This is distinct from the other options, which do not accurately describe the function of a grand jury. For instance, a small group deciding civil cases refers to a different legal process, while a jury determining guilt or innocence pertains to a trial jury's role after a case has been formally charged. The mention of a group assessing legal reforms is unrelated to the criminal justice processes surrounding grand juries.