Indictment
A formal charge issued by a grand jury finding that there is enough evidence to put someone on trial for a serious crime.
An indictment is a formal written accusation that a group of citizens called a grand jury issues after reviewing evidence presented by a prosecutor. The grand jury decides whether there is probable cause to believe a person committed a crime. If the grand jury votes to indict, the case moves forward to trial. An indictment is not a finding of guilt — it simply means there is enough evidence for the case to proceed.
In Minnesota, most criminal cases begin with a complaint filed by a prosecutor rather than a grand jury indictment. However, grand juries are sometimes used for serious felony cases or when the prosecutor wants an independent group of citizens to review the evidence. A defendant has the right to request a grand jury indictment under the Minnesota Constitution.
Why it matters: Being indicted means formal criminal charges are moving forward. It triggers important legal rights, including the right to an attorney, the right to a speedy trial, and the right to review the evidence against you.
Example: A grand jury reviews evidence of financial fraud and returns an indictment charging the defendant with multiple counts of theft. The defendant is then arrested and arraigned in court.
Serious criminal cases (felonies), federal criminal proceedings, news about criminal charges