What is a grand jury and what does it do?

Texas law requires action by the grand jury in most instances before a felony case can be brought to trial. If the grand jury believes that there is probable cause to prove that a person has committed a felony, it votes to issue an indictment. A no-bill means that there is not sufficient probable cause to move the case forward.


The District Attorney's Office assists the grand jury in hearing evidence and preparing indictments, but the actual deliberations are secret. Only the grand jurors are present during deliberations and voting on the cases.

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1. What is a District Attorney's Office?
2. What is appropriate to wear to court?
3. Who do I contact to report a crime?
4. Can a crime be reported directly to the District Attorneys Office?
5. What is a grand jury and what does it do?