Final answer:
The report prepared by a Grand Jury is called an indictment, which is used to formally charge a person with a crime after determining there is probable cause. This process mainly applies at the federal level, with states having alternatives like preliminary hearings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The report prepared by a Grand Jury is called an indictment. A Grand Jury is empaneled to determine whether there is enough evidence to charge a person with a crime, usually a serious felony. The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution requires that serious federal crimes be prosecuted only after an indictment has been issued. During this process, the Grand Jury reviews the evidence presented by the prosecutor. If they find that there is probable cause to believe that a crime was committed and that the suspect committed it, they will issue an indictment, which formally charges the individual and sets the stage for a trial.
It's important to note that the requirement for a Grand Jury indictment applies mainly at the federal level. States have their own procedures; many use preliminary hearings as an alternative means to decide whether a case should go to trial. For members of the armed forces accused of crimes, they are not entitled to a Grand Jury proceeding. Furthermore, if the Grand Jury does not find sufficient evidence, they may return a no bill, meaning no charges will be filed. The proceedings of a Grand Jury are held in secret to protect the accused's reputation in case of a no bill, and to encourage witnesses to speak freely. Grand Jury deliberations and the vote for indictment are kept confidential, and decisions must be unanimous.