Grand Jury vs. Petit Jury: Difference and Comparison
By Muazma Batool & Muneeza Rehman — Published on April 22, 2024
A Grand Jury decides whether there's enough evidence for a trial, while a Petit Jury determines guilt or innocence in a trial.
Difference Between Grand Jury and Petit Jury
A Grand Jury is convened to examine the validity of an accusation before trial, operating mostly in secrecy to protect reputations and encourage witness cooperation. Conversely, a Petit Jury, also known as a trial jury, works in the public eye, hearing evidence in civil and criminal cases to render a verdict.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
Grand Juries consist of 16 to 23 members, a larger group to ensure thorough examination of evidence without requiring unanimity. Petit Juries are smaller, typically comprising 6 to 12 members, and must often reach a unanimous decision to convict or acquit in criminal cases.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
The function of a Grand Jury is not to determine guilt or innocence but to assess whether there is sufficient evidence to charge someone with a crime, resulting in an indictment. A Petit Jury, however, evaluates the evidence presented during a trial to decide on the defendant's guilt or innocence.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
Grand Jury proceedings are confidential, intended to prevent tampering with evidence and to protect the accused's reputation if the charges are dropped. In contrast, Petit Jury trials are conducted openly, ensuring transparency and public trust in the judicial process.
Nolan
Apr 22, 2024
The role of a Grand Jury reflects a preliminary check on prosecutorial power, preventing unwarranted or unsupported charges. The Petit Jury serves as the final arbiter of facts in a court case, embodying the principle of judgment by one's peers.
Levi
Apr 22, 2024
Grand Jury vs. Petit Jury Comparison Chart
Purpose
Decide if there's enough evidence for trial
Determine guilt or innocence in a trial
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
Outcome
Indictment (charge) or not
Verdict (guilty, not guilty, or another resolution)
William
Apr 22, 2024
Grand Jury vs. Petit Jury Definitions
◉Grand Jury
Convenes in secrecy to protect witnesses and the accused.
Her testimony before the Grand Jury remained confidential.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Petit Jury
A small group that decides the outcome of a trial.
The Petit Jury found the defendant guilty.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Grand Jury
Does not require unanimity to indict.
The Grand Jury reached a decision without a full consensus.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Petit Jury
Typically requires unanimity in criminal cases.
The Petit Jury unanimously agreed on the verdict.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Grand Jury
A body that determines if there is enough evidence for a trial.
The Grand Jury indicted the official after reviewing the evidence.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Petit Jury
Works in a public courtroom setting.
Observers watched as the Petit Jury deliberated.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Grand Jury
Focuses on whether a case should proceed to trial.
The Grand Jury found sufficient evidence for a trial.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Petit Jury
Hears evidence and testimony during a trial.
The Petit Jury listened to the closing arguments attentively.
William
Feb 27, 2024
◉Grand Jury
Consists of 16-23 members for federal crimes.
The 20-member Grand Jury heard extensive evidence.
Muazma Batool
Feb 27, 2024
◉Petit Jury
Renders a verdict based on the evidence presented.
After days of deliberation, the Petit Jury reached a verdict.
Levi
Feb 27, 2024
Grand Jury vs. Petit Jury Frequently Asked Questions
Must Petit Jury decisions be unanimous?
In criminal cases, yes, but civil cases may have different requirements.
Kaitlyn
Apr 22, 2024
What is the main purpose of a Grand Jury?
To determine whether there's sufficient evidence to bring a case to trial.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
Are Grand Jury proceedings public?
No, they are conducted in secrecy to protect the accused and witnesses.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
Do all criminal cases go through a Grand Jury?
Not all; it depends on the jurisdiction and the severity of the crime.
Leo
Apr 22, 2024
Is the decision of a Petit Jury final?
Yes, but it can be appealed in higher courts.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
What happens if a Grand Jury does not indict?
The case may be dropped, or the prosecutor can seek a new Grand Jury or file a charge differently.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
How does a Petit Jury differ from a Grand Jury in size?
Petit Juries are smaller, usually 6-12 members, compared to Grand Juries' 16-23 members.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
What is an indictment?
An official charge issued by a Grand Jury if sufficient evidence is found.
Jonathan
Apr 22, 2024
Who presents evidence to a Grand Jury?
Typically, the prosecutor or district attorney.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
What rights do defendants have in Petit Jury trials?
Defendants have the right to present their case, confront witnesses, and have an attorney.
Leo
Apr 22, 2024
Can a Petit Jury issue an indictment?
No, that's the role of the Grand Jury.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
How is a Grand Jury selected?
Similar to Petit Juries, from the public, but the process varies by jurisdiction.
Muazma Batool
Apr 22, 2024
Can defendants present their case in Grand Jury proceedings?
Generally, no, but laws vary by jurisdiction.
Olivia
Apr 22, 2024
Does a Grand Jury verdict determine guilt?
No, it only determines whether there's enough evidence to charge someone with a crime.
Jonathan
Apr 22, 2024
Content Creators
Written by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
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Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
