In Georgia, an indictment is a formal written charging document issued by a grand jury stating that there is probable cause to believe a person committed a felony. A grand jury consists of 16–23 citizens, and at least 12 must vote in favor of a “true bill” for the indictment to be approved. The proceedings are confidential, and neither the defendant nor defense counsel is present. Once the grand jury approves the charges, the signed indictment is filed with the Superior Court and becomes the official set of charges the defendant must answer.

The grand jury process itself is fairly structured but varies slightly by county. After receiving the case file, the prosecutor typically spends up to six weeks preparing evidence and witnesses for presentation. Grand juries usually meet monthly. When the case is called, the prosecutor usually presents a brief summary—often with testimony from a single investigator—and the grand jury votes in private immediately afterward. If they return a true bill, the indictment is filed the same day or within a few days.

From a timing standpoint, most felony cases in Georgia move from arrest to indictment in roughly three to six months. After the case is indicted, it is then transferred to the superior court of that county.

If you’ve been charged with a felony, call our office to speak with one of our experienced attorneys at (404)581-0999.