What are the rules and procedures for jury selection?

Jury selection in Texas follows a process called voir dire. This process begins with a pre-screening of potential jurors. During pre-screening, potential jurors are questioned about their personal views on topics that could influence their decision in trial. After potential jurors have answered the questions, the court decides which jurors will be seated during the entirety of the trial. Once the jurors are seated, the parties to the case—plaintiff and defendant—may exercise their right to exercise peremptory challenges. A peremptory challenge is an objection made by either party without stating a reason or grounds for the objection. Each party in a civil trial is allowed up to four peremptory challenges. In addition to peremptory challenges, either party may also exercise their right to challenge for cause. This requires a stated reason supported by evidence to explain why the potential juror should not be seated. The court must decide if the challenge is valid. The court can excuse the juror if the challenge is found valid or deny the challenge if it is found to be invalid. The jury selection process in Texas follows a set system of pre-screening, peremptory challenges, and challenges for cause. It is important for all parties to a civil case to be aware of, and to follow, these rules and procedures in order to ensure a fair trial.

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What are the rules and procedures for jury selection?

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