What is an indictment?

An indictment is a formal legal document that brings charges against an individual, typically issued by a grand jury. It signifies that the grand jury has reviewed evidence related to a case and has determined that there is sufficient evidence to formally accuse someone of a crime. This process plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system, ensuring that charges brought against an individual are based on probable cause.

The other options do not correctly define an indictment. A suggestion from a jury about a case does not carry any legal weight and is not how charges are formally brought. A plea from the accused refers to the defendant's response to the charges, such as guilty or not guilty, which is a separate phase in the criminal process. An appeal by the defendant occurs after a trial, seeking to overturn a conviction, and is unrelated to the initial charging process represented by an indictment.