What is a grand jury investigation? - South Carolina Criminal Defense

November 30, 2022

If you have learned that you or a family member are the subjects of a grand jury investigation, it’s likely your mind is racing with questions and uncertainty. Let’s take a look at what exactly a grand jury investigation is, who is involved and what you should do if you learn you are the subject of such an investigation.

 

A grand jury investigation is a process by which state prosecutors present cases to a seated grand jury. This grand jury is composed of South Carolina citizens who are summoned and serve as grand jurors for a total of two years.

 

As the state collects evidence to build its case they can issue subpoenas to relevant witnesses and compel their testimony before the grand jury. Further, they can subpoena and compel the production of documents related to the case for presentation to the grand jury.

 

These grand jurors listen to the cases presented by the state prosecutors and then determine whether or not there is sufficient evidence to issue charges or an indictment against an individual. The investigation hearing takes place in private and no judge is present for this proceeding.

 

Under South Carolina law, the grand jury has jurisdiction to investigate and indict criminal activity including:

 

•  Multi-county narcotics conspiracies,

•  criminal gangs,

•  public corruption crimes,

•  securities fraud cases,

•  human trafficking crimes,

•  environmental crimes,

•  election fraud issues,

•  computer crimes, and

•  money laundering offenses

 

If you receive an indictment or learn that you are the subject of a grand jury investigation, hiring defense counsel is your next step. An experienced criminal defense attorney will begin working on your half to challenge the proceedings, obtain documentation and evidence used during the proceedings and begin building a defense on your behalf. Obtaining representation helps to reduce your stress, bring some peace of mind, and help you to understand the next steps.


You need aggressive representation when facing a grand jury in South Carolina

Attorney Peter McCoy’s background as a federal prosecutor gives him the advantage of understanding how the prosecutors think and likely approached your case. He is able to use that experience and knowledge to build a strong defense and find the holes in the case they have built.

 

Let our experience work on your behalf, contact us today.

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