In criminal procedure, what is an indictment?

• A. A formal written charge
• B. A pre-trial motion
• C. A verdict form
• D. A police report

Answer: (A)

An indictment is a formal written charge that starts criminal proceedings. It is a document, often issued after a grand jury determines there’s enough evidence to prosecute or, in some systems, filed by a prosecutor, that specifies the defendant and the offenses they are charged with. This document defines what the trial will address and sets the stage for arraignment and the ensuing process. It is distinct from a pre-trial motion (which seeks a ruling on legal issues before trial), a verdict form (used to record the jury’s decision), and a police report (the investigators’ summary of evidence and observations).