Rule 13.2 Instructions, Duties, and Powers of Grand Jury

When a grand jury starts its work, a judge gives them instructions on what they're supposed to do. This rule says only the circuit judge can give these instructions in person. If the judge is too sick to speak to the grand jury, the circuit clerk or a deputy clerk can read the judge's written instructions out loud instead. The judge has some freedom to decide exactly what to say, based on what the law requires, and there's a sample set of instructions judges can use as a guide.

The rule also gives grand juries the power to look into county government records. Grand jurors can review papers, account books, and records kept by county officials whenever they need to during proper business hours. If they find something worth mentioning, they can report their findings back to the court. This helps grand juries check into how county business is being run as part of their duties.