What is defined as a legal body empowered to conduct proceedings and investigate potential criminal conduct?

A grand jury is a legal body specifically tasked with investigating potential criminal conduct and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to bring formal charges against a suspect. It typically consists of a group of citizens who review evidence presented by a prosecutor and decide whether to issue indictments. This process serves as a critical checkpoint in the criminal justice system, protecting individuals from unfounded charges while allowing law enforcement to pursue investigations.

In contrast, a trial jury, sometimes referred to as a petit jury, is responsible for determining the guilt or innocence of a defendant during a criminal trial based on the evidence presented. A petty jury also performs a similar function but is usually involved in less serious criminal cases. Meanwhile, a coroner’s jury is convened to investigate the circumstances surrounding a death, particularly in cases of sudden, unexplained, or violent deaths, but does not conduct extensive investigations into general criminal conduct. Therefore, the grand jury uniquely fulfills the role of investigating criminal activities and initiating prosecution, making it the correct choice.