Grand Jury Indictments
Why You Should Have a San Diego Attorney experienced with Grand Jury Indictments
Not a lot of people know what a grand jury is, but they know that it is serious. When you hear the words “Grand Jury,” you might immediately go into a state of panic. However, taking this time to consult with legal consul is the best move you could make.
In simple terms, a Grand Jury is a group of people that are charged with determining whether or not a person has committed a crime, and if so, should charges be filed against that person. Unlike a trial before a jury, a Grand Jury is significantly different. In a Grand Jury setting, the prosecutor (either State District Attorney or Federal U.S. Attorney) presents evidence to this group of people. Unless you are subpoenaed as a witness, you are not present, and your attorney is not allowed to be present either. Unlike a jury trial, in a Grand Jury you are not given the Constitutional Right to cross-examine and confront the witnesses against you, and you are not allowed to put on any witnesses on your behalf. It is a one-sided affair, and it is all balanced in favor of the prosecution. If the Grand Jury finds that enough evidence has been presented to file a case against you, you are formally Indicted and will then have the right to contest the charges in court.
Getting an attorney on your side early on in the process can often be crucial. An attorney experienced in dealing with Grand Juries can sometimes make the difference in whether or not the case even makes it to a Grand Jury or whether charges are ever filed. If you have reason to believe you are being investigated by a Grand Jury, or have a pending Grand Jury matter, call Michael S. Berg today for a free consultation.






