What is required before a member of the Arizona legislature can be indicted?

Before a member of the Arizona legislature can be indicted, a preliminary hearing is required. This process serves as an initial check on the evidence against the legislator. During the preliminary hearing, a judge assesses whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with formal charges. This mechanism is crucial to ensure that legislators, who hold significant responsibilities and privileges, are protected from unfounded accusations and that any legal actions against them are substantiated by adequate evidence.

The requirement of a preliminary hearing underscores the principle of due process, ensuring that members of the legislature are afforded a fair legal process before facing potential criminal charges. Such protections are important in maintaining the integrity of legislative roles and providing a safeguard against potential misuse of power in pursuing indictments.