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 either side strike a potential juror without giving a reason, but there is a limit on how many can be used, and both sides—prosecutors and defense—have access to them. This combination is why the statement is correct: it accurately reflects the finite, bilateral nature of peremptory challenges. They don’t require a stated reason—that’s what distinguishes them from challenges for cause, which must cite bias or another disqualifying factor. They aren’t restricted to removing only biased jurors; they can be used for any permissible reason, within legal limits (and subject to anti-discrimination rules).

Peremptory challenges let either side strike a potential juror without giving a reason, but there is a limit on how many can be used, and both sides—prosecutors and defense—have access to them. This combination is why the statement is correct: it accurately reflects the finite, bilateral nature of peremptory challenges. They don’t require a stated reason—that’s what distinguishes them from challenges for cause, which must cite bias or another disqualifying factor. They aren’t restricted to removing only biased jurors; they can be used for any permissible reason, within legal limits (and subject to anti-discrimination rules).