What is a challenge for cause?

• A. A request to strike a juror without reason.
• B. A request to strike a potential juror due to demonstrated bias or incapacity.
• C. A request to postpone the trial.
• D. A request to replace the judge.

Answer: (B)

A challenge for cause is a request made during jury selection to excuse a potential juror because there is a credible reason they cannot be impartial. This includes demonstrated bias, strong preconceptions about the case, or an incapacity that would prevent fair judgment. The judge must decide, based on facts shown, whether the juror can still be fair and follow the instructions. If the judge agrees, that juror is dismissed to preserve the defendant’s right to an impartial jury.

This differs from a peremptory challenge, which allows striking a juror without giving a reason, though subject to rules about discrimination. The other options describe actions unrelated to juror impartiality: postponing the trial is a continuance, and replacing the judge is a recusal/removal of the judge.