A superseding indictment is a document that amends and replaces the original indictment, listing the formal charges against a defendant. It is a criminal complaint brought by a grand jury that changes, adds to, or replaces an original indictment in the wake of new evidence. A grand jury typically approves a superseding indictment after additional information or evidence has been obtained, and the new document usually adds charges or defendants to the case. However, in rare instances, minor deletions of details included in the initial indictment have been permitted. Superseding indictments allow for additions and changes to a case in light of new evidence. They can include different charges, new charges, or add new defendants. Once the grand jury returns a superseding indictment, it replaces (supersedes) the original indictment. Superseding indictments are common in legal cases of all kinds, but can be especially prevalent in high-profile, complex cases.