New York Private Investigator Regulations Practice Exam

Which action characterizes the role of a grand jury?

1. Rendering verdicts on cases

2. Deciding on sentencing determinations

3. Examining evidence to determine if charges should be brought

4. Facilitating witness testimonies

The correct answer is: Examining evidence to determine if charges should be brought

The role of a grand jury is primarily to examine evidence presented to them to determine whether there is sufficient cause to bring criminal charges against a suspect. This process is fundamentally about assessing the validity of the evidence and deciding if there is enough basis for an indictment. Grand juries do not conduct trials; their function is investigative and protective. In contrast, the other actions mentioned do not align with the duties of a grand jury. Rendering verdicts is the responsibility of a trial jury, which evaluates the evidence during a trial to reach a conclusion regarding the defendant's guilt or innocence. Sentencing determinations fall under the purview of judges or juries following a conviction in a trial, rather than during the indictment phase handled by a grand jury. Facilitating witness testimonies is typically a function of the court or trial setting, where witnesses are called to give evidence in front of both the judge and jury.