Section 4.13 General Investigative and Indictment Powers

• Library: Criminal Practice 2012 Supp

A. (§4.13) General Investigative and Indictment Powers

The general investigative and indictment powers of grand juries are set forth in article I, § 16, of the Missouri Constitution and § 540.031, RSMo 2000. Section 540.031 sets forth what is commonly called the court’s charge to the grand jury: “A grand jury may make inquiry into and return indictments for all grades of crimes and shall make inquiry into all possible violations of the criminal laws as the court may direct. The grand jury shall examine...