Asked 8/11/2016 – Galveston, TX

I am the victim in a family court case and trying to drop charges against the defendant. They gave him an indictment before I was given the chance to speak to the grand jury. Now that the defendant has an indictment, I don’t comprehend how that is possible if i never got to see the judge once and how is it just or justified if I was never able to state my side.

Answer

You may testify before a Grand Jury if the District Attorney calls you to testify; you cannot just walk in on your own and ask to speak. An indictment is just the beginning phase of a criminal felony case. There is no Judge in a Grand Jury proceeding. You have not missed out on anything yet. This case will be assigned to a court and you will have your opportunity to confront the defendant. Make sure you let the DA’s office know you want to be present when the case is finalized.