WEB SELECTION OF GRAND JURORS
What is a grand jury?
A grand jury is a body of citizens consisting of twenty-three persons who sit in secrecy to hear evidence concerning crimes against the laws of the United States.
How are grand jurors selected?
Federal law requires that a grand jury be selected at random from a fair cross section of the community in the district or division in which the federal grand jury convenes. The Jury Selection and Service Act establishes the process for selecting jurors and provides requirements citizens must meet in.
To be eligible to serve on a federal grand jury, you must:
- Be a citizen of the United States
- Be at least 18 years old
- Reside in the district or division in which the federal grand jury convenes
- Be able to read, write, and understand the English language
- Not be convicted of a felony
What are the duties of a grand juror?
The primary duty of a grand juror is to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed. The grand jury hears evidence from witnesses and examines documents to make this determination.
If the grand jury finds that there is probable cause, it will issue an indictment. An indictment is a formal accusation that charges a person with a crime. The person who is charged with the crime is then called the defendant.
How long does a grand jury serve?
A federal grand jury typically serves for 18 months. However, the court may extend the term of the grand jury for up to 6 months.
What are the benefits of serving on a grand jury?
Serving on a grand jury is a great way to learn about the criminal justice system and to make a difference in your community. Grand jurors play a vital role in ensuring that justice is served.
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