What is an indictment?

What is an indictment?

• A. A casual allegation by a witness
• B. An accusation in writing presented by the grand jury of the county, charging a person
• C. A court order for arrest
• D. A notarized confession

Answer: (B)

An indictment is a formal written accusation issued by a grand jury, charging a person with a crime. After reviewing evidence presented by the prosecutor, the grand jury votes to return the indictment if there is enough probable cause. This document starts the criminal case in court, and the accused is then arraigned on the charges. It is not a casual allegation by a witness, not a court order for arrest, and not a notarized confession. In Tennessee, indictments are typically used for felonies, while misdemeanors may proceed by other filings.

An indictment is a formal written accusation issued by a grand jury, charging a person with a crime. After reviewing evidence presented by the prosecutor, the grand jury votes to return the indictment if there is enough probable cause. This document starts the criminal case in court, and the accused is then arraigned on the charges. It is not a casual allegation by a witness, not a court order for arrest, and not a notarized confession. In Tennessee, indictments are typically used for felonies, while misdemeanors may proceed by other filings.