What is a common outcome of a Grand Jury's investigation?

A Grand Jury's primary function is to determine whether there is enough evidence to formally accuse someone of a crime, which is known as issuing an indictment. If the Grand Jury finds sufficient evidence, they will issue an indictment, allowing the case to move forward in the court system. Conversely, if they find the evidence lacking, they may choose not to indict the defendant. This process acts as a safeguard against unfounded criminal charges, ensuring that the prosecution has a reasonable basis to proceed. Therefore, the outcome of either indicting a defendant or refusing to indict them is a central aspect of the Grand Jury's role in the criminal justice system.

In contrast, the other options do not directly relate to the typical outcomes of a Grand Jury's investigation. Issuing a civil suit or a judge's ruling pertains to different legal proceedings, while finalizing a settlement usually relates to civil disputes rather than criminal charges examined by a Grand Jury.