What standard do grand juries determine in their proceedings?

Grand juries determine whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the evidence is sufficient to charge an individual with that crime. This standard is lower than the standard required for a conviction, which is beyond a reasonable doubt, and also lower than the preponderance of evidence standard used in civil cases. The process involves an investigation where the prosecutor presents evidence to the grand jury, and the grand jurors assess if the evidence provided supports the initiation of criminal charges. Thus, the correct choice reflects the foundational role that probable cause plays in the grand jury's decision-making process, laying the groundwork for further legal action if sufficient evidence is found.