What is voir dire?

• A. The process of questioning potential jurors to assess impartiality and fitness for the case.
• B. A motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction.
• C. A method of presenting evidence to the jury.
• D. A procedure for appeal.

Answer: (A)

Voir dire is the process of questioning potential jurors to assess impartiality and fitness for the case. The goal is to uncover biases, relationships, or experiences that might prevent a juror from being fair and able to follow the court’s instructions. Through these questions, the judge and attorneys determine who can judge the case impartially; if bias is evident, a juror may be dismissed for cause, and parties may use peremptory challenges to remove someone without giving a reason (within legal limits).

This helps distinguish voir dire from other court practices, such as motions to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction, presenting evidence to the jury, or appellate procedures, which are different stages of the legal process.