Which statement describes grand jury secrecy?

• A. Matters before grand jury are public
• B. Matters before grand jury are secret
• C. Grand jury records are destroyed after indictment
• D. Secrecy does not apply to witnesses

Answer: (B)

Grand jury secrecy means that what is presented to and discussed by the grand jury is kept confidential. This confidentiality protects witnesses from retaliation, allows them to speak freely, and preserves the integrity of the investigation by preventing outside influence. It also helps protect the reputations of individuals who may later be found innocent.

That’s why the statement that matters before the grand jury are secret is the best description. The other options contradict the purpose of secrecy: proceedings are not public; records are not automatically destroyed after indictment; and secrecy does apply to witnesses, since their testimony is kept confidential unless a court requires otherwise.