ABA Family Legal Guide

Criminal Justice

The Police and Your Rights

Criminal Charges

What's the difference between a grand jury and a trial jury?

The purpose of the grand jury is not to decide guilt or innocence--that's the role of the jury at the trial. It is, instead, to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to bring a person to trial.

In general, grand jurors answer this question: "Is there sufficient information to believe that a suspect should be held accountable for a crime?" If people are indicted, they have the opportunity to defend themselves at the ensuing trial. The judge or the jury at the trial will determine whether a person is guilty of the charges.