What is the legal term for the process of presenting evidence to a grand jury?

The process of presenting evidence to a grand jury is accurately described as the indictment process. This term specifically refers to the legal procedures involving the submission of evidence and testimony to the grand jury, which results in whether or not to formally charge an individual with a crime. The grand jury serves as a preliminary screening mechanism to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial, aiming to protect individuals from unfounded criminal charges.

Understanding the indictment process is crucial, as it encapsulates the role of the grand jury in the criminal justice system. The grand jury hears the evidence presented by the prosecutor and assesses whether it warrants an indictment, which is a formal accusation of wrongdoing. This is distinct from other legal concepts like the trial process, which involves adjudicating the guilt or innocence of a defendant after charges have been filed, or the inquiry process, which more generally relates to investigative activities that can occur before any formal charges are laid.