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What is the primary function of a grand jury?
To conduct trials for felony offenses
To issue sentencing recommendations
To decide whether to issue an indictment
To serve as a witness in court
The correct answer is: To decide whether to issue an indictment
The primary function of a grand jury is to decide whether to issue an indictment. In this process, a grand jury reviews evidence presented by the prosecutor to determine if there is enough probable cause to charge an individual with a crime. This mechanism serves as a safeguard for individuals against potential overreach by the state, providing an additional layer of scrutiny before formal charges are brought. Grand juries do not conduct trials for felony offenses; instead, that role is reserved for trial juries. They also do not issue sentencing recommendations, as sentencing is determined after a trial concludes and only when a defendant is convicted. Additionally, a grand jury does not serve as a witness in court; rather, it operates as a body that evaluates evidence presented to it. Thus, the central role of a grand jury is indeed to decide on the question of indictment based on the evidence received.