Virginia law outlines the primary functions of grand juries, including reviewing indictments for probable cause and investigating conditions that promote criminal activity. It also emphasizes the importance of secrecy in grand jury proceedings and provides provisions for sealing indictments upon request. These rules apply to both regular and special grand juries in the state.
Virginia grand juries review indictments for probable cause and investigate conditions that promote criminal activity in the community or by government officials.
Yes, all proceedings are kept confidential, with exceptions such as testimony in perjury cases where a juror may be required to testify.
Yes, upon a motion by the Commonwealth and for good cause, a circuit court may seal an indictment until the defendant is arrested.
Both regular and special grand juries can perform functions such as reviewing indictments and investigating criminal conditions.