Which statement describes a For Cause Challenge?

• A. They require showing bias or inability to be fair.
• B. They allow dismissal for discretionary reasons.
• C. They are identical to peremptory challenges.
• D. They can be used for any reason.

Answer: (A)

For-cause challenges target jurors who cannot be impartial, and the key requirement is showing bias or an actual inability to be fair. A judge must grant these challenges when a prospective juror’s circumstances or statements indicate they cannot judge the case impartially—examples include a close relationship to a party, strong preconceived opinions about the case, or other factors that would prevent fair evaluation of the evidence. This differs from peremptory challenges, which let a party strike a juror without giving any reason or justification (within legal limits) and are not about bias or impartiality. It also isn’t for any reason at all—the reason must relate to impartiality and fairness, not convenience or preference.