Alabama Grand Juries: Unveiling Their Role and Distinctions

What is a Grand Jury?

A grand jury is a group of citizens who determine whether there is enough evidence to formally charge a person with a crime. They do not decide guilt or innocence, but instead determine if there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the accused person committed it.

Role of Grand Juries in Alabama

In Alabama, grand juries play a vital role in the criminal justice system. They are responsible for:

• Reviewing evidence and determining whether there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed
• Issuing indictments, which are formal charges against individuals
• Investigating criminal activity and making recommendations to law enforcement and prosecutors

Distinction from Trial Juries

Grand juries differ from trial juries in several key ways:

• Size and Selection: Grand juries are larger than trial juries (typically 12-18 members vs. 6-12 members) and are selected randomly from a pool of qualified citizens.
• Procedure: Grand jury proceedings are secret, and witnesses do not have the right to legal counsel. Trial juries, on the other hand, hear testimony in open court and have the right to cross-examine witnesses.
• Purpose: Grand juries determine probable cause, while trial juries determine guilt or innocence.