Final answer:
The statement that a grand jury determines if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial is true. They issue an indictment if there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and the accused has committed it. However, the final determination of guilt or innocence is made by the petit jury during the trial.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the grand jury determines if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial is true. A grand jury's primary function is to review the evidence presented by the prosecutor to decide whether there is sufficient probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the accused person has committed that crime. This process results in an indictment, which is essentially a formal charge that initiates the criminal trial process. However, it's essential to note that the grand jury does not determine guilt or innocence; that is the responsibility of the petit jury (trial jury) during the trial.
In the American legal system, particularly at the federal level, the grand jury plays a critical role in ensuring that a person is not subject to a criminal trial without reasonable evidence to back the charges. The grand jury serves as a protective measure against unfounded legal proceedings. Nonetheless, not all states use grand juries, with some preferring preliminary hearings before a judge to accomplish the same goal.
Upon concluding its proceedings, if the grand jury believes the evidence is sufficient, it will issue an indictment, allowing the case to move forward to trial. If it finds the evidence lacking, it will not issue an indictment, and no trial will occur unless further evidence is presented.