Peremptory challenge

Request by a party that a judge not allow a certain prospective juror as a member of the jury. No reason or cause need be stated. See challenge for cause.

A challenge to a prospective juror for which no specific reason need be given. A successful peremptory challenge has the effect of excusing the prospective juror from service on a particular jury. The number of peremptory challenges available to the government and the defense varies, depending on whether the case is a capital felony, felony, or misdemeanor. The Supreme Court has ruled that peremptory challenges may not be based on race of the prospective juror.