An indictment is a formal accusation issued by a grand jury, indicating that there is enough evidence to bring criminal charges against an individual. Functionally, it serves as the starting point for a criminal prosecution. For example, if a person is suspected of fraud, a grand jury may review the evidence and, if persuaded, return an indictment charging the person with specific fraud offenses.
This event holds significant weight within the legal system. It safeguards individual rights by ensuring a body of citizens reviews the evidence before the state can proceed with a criminal trial. Historically, the indictment process evolved as a check against potential abuses of power by the government, requiring independent verification of probable cause.
