Grand Jury Duty

[TheArgumentative]

Got a summons for grand jury duty. What does this involve? Do I actually have to investigate cases or is it more like a trial jury where there's not much to do but listen and evaluate the evidence presented? If anyone's actually sat on a grand jury, happily jump forth into the commentary!

Also, I have a notice (somewhere) confirming I already fulfilled jury duty in New York State recently. Will that get me out of this (federal) summons?

[Mr. Knowitall]

You can grab the "Grand Jury Handbook" here.

A grand jury decides if there is a probable cause to indict (accuse) individuals or corporations on criminal charges based upon the evidence presented. Grand jury sessions are held in a private room with only the grand jury, which consists of 23 individuals, government lawyers, court reporters, an interpreter if needed, and the witnesses to be heard, all under oath.

You don't get automatically released from jury duty by virtue of having recently served, even in the same jurisdiction. If you have a hardship case to make, focus on the hardship angle.