What is defined as a formal charge by a grand jury?

An indictment is a formal charge issued by a grand jury, which signifies that there is enough evidence to formally accuse someone of a crime. This legal framework is designed to ensure that an individual is not unjustly prosecuted without a thorough examination of the evidence by a group of peers. The indictment initiates the criminal proceedings against a defendant and outlines the specific charges they will face.

An affidavit, while a sworn written statement used in various legal contexts, does not serve as a formal charge by a grand jury. Similarly, a subpoena is a legal order requiring an individual to appear in court or produce evidence, but it does not represent a charge against anyone. Lastly, a complaint is typically associated with civil legal actions and is a document filed by a plaintiff to initiate a lawsuit, which is distinct from the criminal indictment process. Thus, the definition of an indictment aligns precisely with the role of a grand jury in the criminal justice system, confirming its status as the correct answer.