What is the purpose of a Grand Jury in criminal law?

The purpose of a Grand Jury in criminal law is to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to bring criminal charges against an individual. This body is comprised of a group of citizens who review evidence presented by prosecutors in order to decide if there is enough probable cause to formally charge someone with a crime, which would lead to a trial. The Grand Jury does not determine guilt or innocence; that is the role of a trial jury. It also does not assign legal representation or review civil cases, as its focus is exclusively on assessing potential criminal charges. Therefore, the correct answer, which emphasizes the Grand Jury's role in evaluating evidence, is essential to understanding its function in the legal system.