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A trial jury, also known as a petit jury, decides whether the defendant committed the
crime as charged in a criminal case, or whether the defendant injured the plaintiff in
a civil case.
Grand Jury
A grand jury is presented with evidence from the U.S. attorney, the prosecutor in
federal criminal cases. The grand jury determines whether there is “probable cause”
to believe the individual has committed a crime and should be put on trial. If the
grand jury determines there is enough evidence, an indictment will be issued against
the defendant.