FY 26 Proposed Operating Budget Book

JUDICIAL Grand Jury Cost Center 413000

ORIGIN & PURPOSE: Under Maryland law, the Grand Jury performs an important function in the administration of the criminal law. It is not a judicial body, but is an accusing body. It has been preserved as an institution necessary for the preservation of the peace, good order, and dignity of the state in bringing to trial those guilty of violations of law, and protecting people from being put on trial for frivolous, unfounded, or false accusations. The Grand Jury's function is to investigate violations of the criminal law and this function is ordinarily accomplished by indictments or presentments. Various statutory duties are also imposed on the Grand Jury. At least once each calendar year, the Grand Jury must visit the local jail and inquire into its condition, the manner in which it is kept, and the treatment of the prisoners, and report their findings to the Court. The Grand Jury in Harford County is selected from the list of local voters. Its function is to decide whether a person suspected of committing a crime should be indicted. Evidence is presented to the Grand Jury by the State's Attorney, law enforcement officers, and witnesses. A determination is made and the indictments and/or no bills are presented to the Circuit Court for Harford County. The Grand Jury operating budget appropriates funding for costs associated with Grand Jury services, including fees and miscellaneous expenses.

DIVISION SUMMARY BY CHARACTER

Judicial Grand Jury by Character

FY 23 Audited

FY 24 Audited

FY 25 Approved Budget

FY 26 Proposed Budget

CONTRACTUAL SERVICES

$16,800

$18,120

$17,000

$17,000

TOTAL

$16,800

$18,120

$17,000

$17,000

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