What is an indictment?

An indictment specifically refers to an accusation that is formally presented to a Grand Jury. This process involves a group of citizens who evaluate the evidence provided by the prosecution to determine whether there is enough justification to charge an individual with a crime. The Grand Jury serves as a safeguard against unfounded or arbitrary prosecutions, ensuring that a significant number of citizens agree that there is probable cause for the charges to move forward.

The correct answer correctly identifies the purpose and function of an indictment in the legal system, distinguishing it from the other options that describe different legal terms or processes. For instance, a formal statement of a defendant's guilt or a proclamation of trial results would occur later in the judicial process, while a legal defense option refers to strategies that a defendant might use during trial, none of which aligns with the definition of an indictment.