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A "No True Bill" is a formal decision made by a grand jury indicating that there is insufficient evidence to charge an individual with a crime. This finding means that the jury believes there is no probable cause to proceed with a criminal trial against the accused. When a grand jury issues a No True Bill, it signifies that the evidence presented does not warrant an indictment, and therefore, the accused person will not face trial for the alleged offense.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "No True Bill" is primarily used in criminal law. It plays a crucial role in the grand jury process, which is a preliminary step in criminal proceedings. A grand jury reviews evidence presented by the prosecution to determine whether there is enough cause to formally charge someone with a crime. If the grand jury finds the evidence lacking, they issue a No True Bill, effectively halting any potential prosecution against the accused.
Understanding this term is important for individuals involved in criminal cases, as it can significantly impact the trajectory of legal proceedings. Users can manage related legal documents with tools like US Legal Forms, which offers templates drafted by experienced attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A grand jury reviews evidence regarding a theft case. After deliberation, they determine that the evidence does not support the claim that the accused committed the crime. They issue a No True Bill, and the accused is not charged.
Example 2: In a hypothetical scenario, a grand jury examines allegations of assault but finds the evidence insufficient to support an indictment. They issue a No True Bill, leading to no charges being filed against the accused.
State-by-state differences
State
Notes
California
In California, the grand jury process is less common, and preliminary hearings are often used instead.
New York
New York allows for both grand jury indictments and preliminary hearings, with No True Bill being a common outcome in cases with insufficient evidence.
Texas
Texas has a unique system where a No True Bill can be issued by a grand jury, but the accused may still face charges if new evidence arises.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
No True Bill
A finding by a grand jury that there is insufficient evidence to charge someone with a crime.
Indicates a lack of probable cause for prosecution.
Indictment
A formal charge or accusation of a serious crime.
Indicates that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution.
Preliminary Hearing
A court proceeding to determine if there is enough evidence to charge an accused.
Conducted by a judge rather than a grand jury.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you have been involved in a case where a No True Bill has been issued, it is essential to understand that you will not face charges for that particular allegation. However, if you have questions about your situation or if new evidence arises, consider consulting with a legal professional for guidance.
You may also explore US Legal Forms for templates and resources that can assist you in managing any related legal matters.
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