To obtain an indictment, a prosecutor must present proposed charges to a grand jury – a body of jurors that investigates crimes and decides whether charges should be filed.

Who are indictments given by?

indictment, also called presentment or true bill, in the United States, a formal written accusation of crime affirmed by a grand jury and presented by it to a court for trial of the accused.

Do grand juries issue indictments?

The grand jury plays an important role in the criminal process, but not one that involves a finding of guilt or punishment of a party. Instead, a prosecutor will work with a grand jury to decide whether to bring criminal charges or an indictment against a potential defendant -- usually reserved for serious felonies.