What is the “charges” part of what is termed a “plea of unprejudiced or innocent plea?” The answer is simple: “A plea of unprejudiced or innocent plea.” Sometimes “apertinent” is used instead of “unprejudiced,” and sometimes the words “unjust” or “unlawful” are substituted. In any case, the word “charge” does not appear in our legal dictionary.
A grand jury is a court composed of twelve people – who hear cases involving whatever facts come to their knowledge and determine whether those facts support a crime. The prosecutor presents his or her case against the defendant, and the grand jury consists of twelve citizens who hear the case and decide if there is sufficient evidence to present a case against the defendant. If the jurors (who are all sworn to tell the truth) believe that the prosecutor has presented enough evidence to meet the burden of proof, they must unanimously agree on the charges or “charges.” This “charges” must be submitted to the judge, who decides if there is sufficient evidence to support a conviction.
An indictment must be “adopted” or “indicted” by the grand jury – before it can be entered as a true and valid Indictment. What is another term for an indictment issued by a grand jury? Indictments are orders of the court entering into a legal action; they are not pleas, which involve a plea of “not guilty.” “Charge” means the words “admonished,” “charged,” “with the intent to prosecute” or “to accuse.” Indictments are entered into the courts of law by the prosecutor or by the grand jury.
Another term for an indictment issued – by a grand jury is “the pleasure of the court.” Pleasure refers to an act of exercising jurisdiction. An indictment does not necessarily mean guilt; it only indicates that there is a suspicion (or “grounds”) that a person committed a crime.
Another term for an indictment issued – by a grand jury is “verdict.” A verdict refers to the issuing of a formal order setting down the guilt or innocence of a person. The grand jury may find not guilty or may not charge a person. There is an important difference between an “indictment” and a “verdict.” An indictment is a formal charge issued by a grand jury against someone.
Another term for an indictment issued – by a grand jury is “guilty plea.” A guilty plea is an agreement by the defendant to plead to the charges against them. It is an admission of guilt. If a person openly and voluntarily enters a guilty plea, it is not an indictment. Indictments are formal charges filed in a U.S. district court against a defendant.