FOCL Practice Test

Before a felony case can proceed to trial, what must the Grand Jury issue?

1. A plea agreement

2. A true bill indictment

3. A dismissal order

4. A felony complaint

The correct answer is: A true bill indictment

In the context of felony cases, a Grand Jury plays a critical role in determining whether there is sufficient evidence to formally charge a suspect with a crime. The process requires the Grand Jury to review evidence presented by the prosecutor and make a decision. When the Grand Jury determines that there is enough evidence to support the charges, they issue what is known as a "true bill indictment." This indictment signifies that they believe probable cause exists to proceed with prosecution. The issuance of a true bill indictment is an essential step for the case to move forward to trial, as it formally accuses an individual of a felony and allows the legal process to continue. Other options like a plea agreement, dismissal order, or felony complaint do not serve this specific function in the Grand Jury process. A plea agreement is typically negotiated after charges have been brought, whereas a dismissal order ends legal proceedings. A felony complaint is a document that initiates a criminal case but does not involve the Grand Jury’s decision-making process. Thus, the appearance of a true bill indictment before a trial is crucial to ensure that the legal framework for a felony case is established correctly.