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Grand Juries in Minnesota: A Guide for Prospective Jurors
What is a Grand Jury?
A grand jury is a body of citizens summoned by the court to investigate criminal activity and determine if there is probable cause to charge someone with a crime.
Grand juries are typically used for serious crimes, such as murder, robbery, and drug trafficking. They are also used to investigate public corruption and other complex cases.
Who is Eligible to Serve on a Grand Jury?
In Minnesota, anyone over the age of 18 who is a citizen of the United States and a resident of the county where the grand jury is being convened is eligible to serve. However, there are some exceptions. People who have been convicted of a felony or who are currently under indictment for a felony are not eligible to serve. People who have a mental illness or who are unable to understand the proceedings are also not eligible.
How Are Grand Jurors Selected?
Grand jurors are selected randomly from a list of registered voters in the county. The court sends out a summons to each prospective juror, which explains the duties and time commitment involved in serving on a grand jury. Prospective jurors must then complete a questionnaire, which the court uses to screen for eligibility and potential conflicts of interest.
What Happens During a Grand Jury Proceeding?
Grand jury proceedings are secret. The jurors hear evidence from witnesses and examine documents related to the case under investigation. The jurors then deliberate and vote on whether to indict the person under investigation. If the grand jury votes to indict, the person is charged with a crime and the case proceeds to trial.
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