grand jury transcripts

Federal judges may deny requests to unseal grand jury transcripts when they find 'significant and compelling' reasons to keep the materials sealed, such as when existing investigative files already contain substantial information that diminishes the need for release.

Misstatements of law presented to a grand jury, the use of potentially privileged communications in an investigation, and unexplained irregularities in grand jury transcripts are types of investigative deficiencies that can undermine the integrity of grand jury proceedings.

Federal judges and magistrate judges may review grand jury transcripts in camera during judicial hearings to determine whether the transcripts should be disclosed to the defense.