What does an indictment represent?

An indictment is a formal accusation that charges an individual with committing a crime, typically issued by a grand jury. It signifies that there is sufficient evidence to bring the case to trial. The process of indictment is critical in the legal system, as it provides a layer of protection against unwarranted prosecution, ensuring that individuals cannot be tried for serious offenses without a thorough examination of the available evidence by a group of peers.

The other responses do not align with the definition of an indictment. A decision made by a jury refers to the verdict in a trial rather than the initial charge. A type of defense plea does not accurately describe an indictment, as it pertains to how a defendant responds to charges rather than being a charge itself. Similarly, a sentence issued by the court relates to the punishment given after a conviction, rather than the initial formal accusation of a crime. Understanding this distinction helps clarify the role of an indictment in the criminal justice process.