What is challenge for cause?

A challenge for cause is a legal procedure used during jury selection to disqualify a potential juror based on specific biases or inability to serve impartially. Unlike a peremptory challenge, which allows a party to dismiss a juror without stating a reason, a challenge for cause requires the party to provide a valid justification, such as a conflict of interest or a preconceived opinion about the case. The judge ultimately decides whether to grant the challenge. This process ensures that the jury remains fair and unbiased.