Grand Jury Investigations Attorney In Chicago
In the most serious of criminal charges, the evidence of criminal activity is examined in a special hearing called a grand jury. Much like a trial jury, these juries are comprised of citizens from all walks of life who are asked to be a part of a grand jury as a duty of citizenship. Their job is to decide if the evidence merits an arrest and full trial.
At Wolf Criminal Law, our founder, Bill Wolf, has been a dedicated criminal defense attorney for more than 30 years. His experience in big, complicated grand jury investigations is a valuable resource to you. While a grand jury typically has no contact with a defense team, that doesn’t mean you are utterly helpless. We can get to work early to help secure your rights as a subject of a grand jury investigation and begin the aggressive defense you deserve.
The Important Role Of The Grand Jury In Illinois And Federal Criminal Law
The goal of a grand jury is to examine prosecutorial evidence and witnesses to see if there is enough cause for a trial. The grand jury is meant to be a secret group, with only the judge, the prosecutors and witnesses able to be in the room during the process. Because of the set up, obviously the prosecution has a considerable advantage and usually is successful at securing their trial.
However, a grand jury investigation is a right of yours as a citizen of Illinois. It adds a barrier between an accused individual and overzealous prosecution. Because even though the odds are in the prosecution’s favor, the grand jury is made up of people who have a duty to give “serious and thoughtful consideration” to the evidence.
Grand Jury Witness Subpoenas
One of the many independent powers available to a grand jury is the ability to call witnesses when necessary. The grand jury does this by issuing subpoenas to witnesses; this typically would happen if the grand jury believed that it needed evidence beyond what the prosecution presented.
If you are the target of a grand jury subpoena you are allowed to have legal counsel. But a grand jury subpoena does not change your rights. As a witness, the grand jury cannot compel you to self-incriminate. They cannot seize your property.
The secret nature of the grand jury is a considerable obstacle, because we cannot go with you into the room. Still, we can advise you of how to deliver your testimony and how to keep from incriminating yourself.
Federal Grand Juries
The federal government uses grand juries in much the same way that Illinois does. The key difference between a federal grand jury and a state grand jury is the venue and the prosecutors. The federal grand jury serves for several months, and meets about many cases over the course of that time.
However, the circumstances of the jury, and its duties and secrecy remain the same.
Answers To Your Questions About Grand Jury Investigations
A grand jury investigation is a major concern for both witnesses and those facing allegations. In either case, we are here to answer your questions about the process and help you manage your expectations and worries.
How long does a grand jury investigation take?
A grand jury will take as long as is required to review the evidence and conduct its own investigation. This can take a few days or several months, depending on the circumstances.
What are the investigative powers of the grand jury?
Grand juries can call witnesses and review any evidence they believe relevant. They are typically given all the evidence and witnesses secured by the prosecution, but they are not bound solely to that evidence.
What types of crimes go to the grand jury?
In Illinois, any crime that will lead to imprisonment will go before a grand jury before charges are filed. This could be a DUI charge or a homicide.
Assistance, Guidance, Strength
Grand jury investigations in Cook County, Will County, DuPage County and Kane County are serious. But attorney Bill Wolf has the experience to help you understand what’s happening and make smart choices about how to confront them. Call us at 312-444-0907 or send an email using this form to get started.