The grand jury plays a pivotal role in the indictment process. Comprising citizens from the community, the grand jury reviews evidence presented by the prosecution. Unlike a trial jury that determines guilt or innocence, the grand jury assesses whether there is enough probable cause to believe that a crime has occurred and that the accused individual is connected to it. This process serves as a check on the government's power, preventing unfounded or arbitrary accusations from proceeding to trial. If the grand jury finds sufficient evidence, they issue an indictment, formally charging the individual and initiating the criminal trial phase.