Challenge For Cause Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Challenge For Cause, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Challenge For Cause?

(n) Challenge For Cause is the right available to an attorney to request the removal of a juror for reasons sufficient to stop him from serving as juror in that case. Acquaintance with the parties, Attorneys or witness, previous history , apparent prejudice , unsound mind etc are treated as the ground for removal of the jury.

History and Meaning of Challenge For Cause

Challenge for Cause is a term used in the legal world to describe the right granted to lawyers to request the removal of a potential juror if they show signs of incapacity, partiality, or bias that would negatively affect the outcome of a case. This right dates back to common law and has been included in federal and state law through statutes and court decisions. The purpose of this right is to ensure that the fairness and impartiality of a trial are maintained by removing potential jurors who may not be capable of reaching an unbiased decision.

Examples of Challenge For Cause

  1. During jury selection, the defense attorney used a challenge for cause to remove a potential juror who had a personal connection to the defendant that could influence their decision.
  2. The judge granted the prosecution's challenge for cause when a potential juror expressed a bias against people of a certain race, which could impact the outcome of the trial.
  3. The defense team successfully used a challenge for cause to remove a potential juror who had a previous negative experience with the defendant and would not be able to make an impartial decision.

Legal Terms Similar to Challenge For Cause

  1. Voir Dire: The process of questioning potential jurors to determine if they are competent, suitable, and unbiased to serve on a jury.
  2. Peremptory Challenge: The right of attorneys to remove a potential juror without having to give a specific reason.
  3. Prejudice: The preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.