Legal Terms and Concepts

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Challenge for Cause

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The process of excusing a prospective juror due to a demonstrated bias or inability to be impartial.

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Jury of One’s Peers

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A jury representing a cross-section of the community where the trial is held.

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Peremptory Challenge

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The right of attorneys to reject a certain number of prospective jurors without stating a reason.

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Voir Dire

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The process of questioning prospective jurors to determine their qualifications and biases.

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Magna Carta

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The historical document that introduced the principle of trial by jury.

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Sequestration of Jury

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Isolating a jury from outside influences to ensure an impartial verdict.

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Death-Qualified Jury

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A jury composed of individuals who have stated they would consider the death penalty if appropriate.

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Impartial Jury

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A jury that is unbiased and selected from a fair cross-section of the community.

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Implied Bias

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A presumed prejudice that disqualifies a juror due to a relationship with the case, such as being a landlord or employer of a party involved.

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Pretrial Publicity

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Media coverage of a case before trial, which can impact jury impartiality.