Louisiana Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

Who presents evidence to the grand jury?

1. The defendant's attorney

2. The judge presiding over the case

3. The district attorney

4. A appointed legal advisor

The correct answer is: The district attorney

In a grand jury proceeding, the district attorney is responsible for presenting evidence. This role is critical because the district attorney essentially acts as the representative of the state, tasked with demonstrating to the grand jury whether there is sufficient evidence to formally charge a person with a crime. The grand jury ultimately makes a determination about whether to issue an indictment based on the evidence presented. The process is designed to be more investigative, as the grand jury does not hear from the defendant or their attorney at this stage. The judge does not participate in the grand jury proceedings; their role is more in the context of presiding over trials or other legal matters in the court. Additionally, while a legal advisor may assist with guidance, it is the district attorney who leads the evidentiary presentation. This structure ensures that the state’s case is presented clearly and effectively to the grand jury, allowing them to fulfill their function of reviewing the evidence and deciding on the matter of prosecution.