Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
If you or a loved one has been indicted by a Grand Jury, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, James Dimeas will help you understand the Grand Jury process, what it means to be indicted, and the critical steps that follow. Knowing how the system works is essential to protecting your rights and building a strong defense.
What Is a Grand Jury?
A Grand Jury is a group of citizens selected to review evidence presented by a prosecutor to determine whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and whether there is probable cause to believe that you are the one that committed the crime. The standard of proof is whether the proposition has been proven to be more probably true than not true. This is a very low standard of proof. Unlike a trial jury, which determines guilt has been proven beyond a reasoneable doubt, a Grand Jury’s role is solely to decide if formal charges should be filed against an individual. Grand Jury proceedings are secret, and only the prosecutor and witnesses are present. There is no judge, and the defense attorney does not participate during the presentation of evidence.
What Does It Mean to Be Indicted by a Grand Jury?
When a Grand Jury issues an indictment, it means they have found sufficient evidence to formally charge you with a crime. An indictment is not a conviction; it simply initiates the criminal case against you. If you have been indicted, you must take the charges seriously and seek legal representation immediately. As your criminal defense attorney, I will work to examine the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop a robust defense strategy.
How Does a Grand Jury Work?
- Selection of the Grand Jury:
- Grand Jurors are selected from the community, similar to how trial jurors are chosen.
- Presentation of Evidence:
- The prosecutor presents evidence, including witness testimony, documents, and other materials. Witnesses testify under oath, and the Grand Jury can ask questions.
- Decision on Indictment:
- The Grand Jury deliberates in private to determine whether probable cause exists. If the majority agrees, they issue a “true bill” of indictment, formally charging the individual with the alleged crime. If they do not find sufficient evidence, a “no bill” is issued, and charges are not filed.
What Happens After a Grand Jury Indictment?
Once you are indicted, the case moves to the trial phase, which involves several key steps:
- Arraignment:
- You will appear in court to hear the charges against you and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Hearings:
- Your defense attorney will file motions to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, request discovery, and address any constitutional violations.
- Plea Bargaining:
- In some cases, the prosecution may offer a plea deal. I will negotiate aggressively on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome.
- Trial:
- If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where a jury will determine your guilt or innocence.
- Sentencing (if convicted):
- If you are found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include probation, fines, or incarceration.
Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Being indicted by a Grand Jury is a serious matter that requires immediate and strategic legal action. As an experienced criminal defense attorney with years of experience handling complex criminal cases, I will:
- Investigate the evidence against you.
- Identify potential defenses and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Advocate for your rights in court.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges.
Contact James Dimeas for Skilled Legal Representation
If you or a loved one has been indicted by a Grand Jury, don’t face the legal system alone. Contact me, James Dimeas, today for a free consultation. Together, we will discuss your case, explore your options, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.
James Dimeas, is a nationally-recognized, award-winning, criminal defense lawyer, with over-32 years of experience handling criminal cases in Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, and Lake County. Recently, James Dimeas was named a “Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer in the State of Illinois for the Year” by the American Society of Legal Advocates. James Dimeas was named a “Best DUI Attorney” and a “Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago” by Expertise. James Dimeas was named a “Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyer” by the National Trial Lawyers. The National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys awarded James Dimeas the “Top 10 Attorney Award for the State of Illinois.” James Dimeas is rated “Superb” by AVVO, the highest classification possible for any criminal defense lawyer in the United States. The American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys recognized James Dimeas as a “10 Best Attorney for Client Satisfaction.” Attorney and Practice Magazine gave James Dimeas the “Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney Award for Illinois.
Contact James Dimeas at 847-807-7405, or fill out our online contact form and I will contact you to discuss your case to protect your rights and secure your future.
Additional Blogs:
Can The Police Arrest Me Without Any Evidence in Illinois, by James G. Dimeas, July 3, 2017.