Why can lawyers challenge potential jurors for cause?

In the legal process of jury selection, lawyers challenge potential jurors for cause to ensure a fair and impartial trial. This process, known as voir dire, is designed to detect any specific likelihood of bias or preconceived notions regarding a case's outcome.12

By identifying individuals who may be unable to remain objective, the court upholds the ethical principle that every party is entitled to a trial by an unbiased group of peers. Unlike peremptory challenges, which allow attorneys to dismiss a limited number of jurors without providing a reason, challenges for cause are unlimited and require a demonstration that the prospective juror cannot serve impartially.12