Which statement about peremptory challenges is true?

Which statement about peremptory challenges is true?

• A. They are unlimited and available to both sides
• B. They require a stated reason for removal
• C. They can only be used to remove biased jurors
• D. They are limited in number and available to both prosecutors and defense

Answer: (D)

Peremptory challenges let attorneys strike potential jurors without giving a reason during jury selection. This tool is not unlimited; there is a capped number of peremptory challenges, and both sides—the prosecution and the defense—have access to them. That combination—a limited allotment shared by both sides—explains why this statement is true. It's useful to contrast with challenges for cause, which require a stated reason to remove a juror who cannot be impartial. Peremptories don’t require a reason, but they are bounded by the number allowed and must be used within the rules that prohibit discriminatory excluding of jurors based on protected characteristics.

Peremptory challenges let attorneys strike potential jurors without giving a reason during jury selection. This tool is not unlimited; there is a capped number of peremptory challenges, and both sides—the prosecution and the defense—have access to them. That combination—a limited allotment shared by both sides—explains why this statement is true. It's useful to contrast with challenges for cause, which require a stated reason to remove a juror who cannot be impartial. Peremptories don’t require a reason, but they are bounded by the number allowed and must be used within the rules that prohibit discriminatory excluding of jurors based on protected characteristics.