When someone is indicted, it means that a formal charge or accusation has been made against them in a criminal case. An indictment typically follows a grand jury proceeding, where a group of citizens reviews evidence presented by a prosecutor to determine whether there is enough evidence to charge the individual with a crime.
Here are some key points about the indictment process:
Grand Jury: An indictment usually involves a grand jury, which is a group of citizens convened to review evidence and determine if there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed.
Formal Charge: An indictment serves as a formal charge against the individual, indicating that they are being accused of a specific crime. This can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
Legal Rights: Once indicted, the individual has the right to legal representation and is entitled to due process under the law. They will typically be arraigned, where they enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest) before a court.
Implications: An indictment does not imply guilt; it simply indicates that there is sufficient evidence to warrant a trial. The accused has the opportunity to defend themselves in court.
Severity: Indictments are often associated with more serious crimes, whereas less serious offenses may be charged through a different process, such as a complaint or information.
Overall, an indictment is a significant step in the criminal justice process, signaling that a legal case is moving forward against the accused individual.