Grand Jury Decisions: Indictments & No Bills
Following the presentation of the County or State prosecutor’s case to the Grand Jury, it must make a decision on whether or not to indict. If the panel finds that there is probable cause to believe that an indictable crime has been committed, then an indictment is issued. If inadequate evidence of guilt is found, the jurors will return a “No Bill.”
What Does “No Billed” by a Grand Jury Mean?
You might have heard the phrase “no billed by a grand jury”. If a grand jury has returned a “No Bill” decision, it means that they have concluded that there is not enough evidence of guilt to support a criminal charge against the accused.
It is crucially important that an accused retain a defense attorney as early as possible so that exculpatory evidence may be gathered and presented to the prosecutor before grand jury presentation. Our lawyers have the know-how to ensure that your defenses are properly developed and presented to the prosecution in hopes of leading to a no bill. Attorneys from our firm are available immediately to assist you at 855-450-8310.
Grand Jury Return of an Indictment
After a New Jersey grand jury votes to indict, the formal charging document—the indictment—is prepared by the prosecutor. An indictment sets forth the basic material facts alleged against a defendant and then recites the law that has been violated. The indictment must also advise the accused of the degree of the offense being charged (i.e. first-degree, second-degree, third-degree, or fourth-degree).
Issuance of a No Bill by Grand Jury
If the Grand Jury concludes that there is insufficient evidence to indict an accused, then it will return a “no bill.” This outcome results in immediate dismissal of the felony charge that was filed against the defendant in the criminal complaint. When this happens, the foreperson of the Grand Jury must immediately advise the county assignment judge of the no bill. The reason for this lies in the fact that the defendant may be in custody and should not be further detained absent other reasons for detention.
If you require additional information or representation, our attorneys are prepared to help you. Lawyers from our firm are available immediately at 855-450-8310 to consult with you without obligation.
