Confused about what a grand jury does? Wondering what happens when a former president is arraigned? Here’s our guide to the legalese surrounding the historic indictment of Donald Trump and what happens next.
Although the criminal prosecution of a former U.S. president is historic, it’s also wrapped up in legalese that can be confusing if you’re not a lawyer — or a"Law & Order" fan.
Grand juries meet in secret to allow witnesses to testify freely and avoid any interference for jurors. A New York grand jury has 23 members. To conduct any business, at least 16 grand jurors must be present. Only the prosecution presents evidence to the grand jury. A defense attorney is present only if the accused person chooses to testify. News reports said Trump was invited to testify but didn’t.state, people cannot be brought to trial for a felony unless they have been indicted by a grand jury.
The grand jury may vote to formally accuse someone of a crime by issuing an indictment, or may vote to dismiss the charges. The grand jury may also direct the prosecutor to proceed on a path that would result in a charge that is less than a felony.The indictment remained sealed because the proceedings were still considered private and charges had not yet been made public.attend an arraignment
Zelin said that because of bail reforms in New York, the judge would lack discretion to set bail and Trump would be free to leave on his own recognizance after the hearing. In New York, Zelin said, only certain offenses qualify for bail and this would not be among them.Before Trump, no American president has been indicted on criminal charges either while in office or after leaving the White House.
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