What is the function of a grand jury?

The function of a grand jury is primarily to determine if there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and, as a result, to decide whether there is sufficient evidence to issue an indictment against a suspect. This process involves reviewing evidence presented by the prosecution and hearing witness testimonies, all in a confidential setting. The grand jury does not determine guilt or innocence; rather, it acts as a preliminary step in the judicial process to protect citizens from unfounded criminal charges. If a grand jury finds sufficient grounds, it will issue an indictment, which allows the case to proceed to trial.

The other options relate to different aspects of the legal system. Conducting trials for civil cases is the function of trial courts, not a grand jury. The responsibility of recommending sentences for convicted criminals falls to judges and, in certain cases, juries during sentencing phases, not a grand jury. Lastly, overseeing police investigations is primarily the role of law enforcement agencies and internal legal oversight bodies, rather than grand juries, which focus on assessing evidence rather than managing investigative processes.