What is the function of a grand jury?

The function of a grand jury is primarily to decide on whether there is sufficient evidence to bring formal charges, or an indictment, against a suspect. This process involves reviewing evidence presented by the prosecution, which can include witness testimonies and documents, to determine if there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the suspect is responsible.

The grand jury operates outside of the public court system and does not involve the defense at this stage, focusing solely on the evidence provided by the prosecution. If the grand jurors believe there is enough evidence, they will issue an indictment, which allows the case to move forward to trial.

Other functions outlined in the options, such as negotiating plea deals, managing probation conditions, or sentencing convicted individuals, are not part of the grand jury's role. Plea deals are typically determined through discussions between the prosecutor and the defendant, probation management involves the court and probation officers post-conviction, and sentencing is the responsibility of a judge after a conviction has been secured in a trial. Thus, the grand jury's primary role remains centered on evaluating evidence for potential indictments.