A "for cause challenge" is a legal term used during jury selection in a trial. It allows attorneys to request the dismissal of a potential juror if they believe that juror has a specific bias or inability to be impartial. This challenge is based on valid reasons, such as a juror's prior knowledge of the case or a personal connection to one of the parties involved.
In contrast to "peremptory challenges," which allow attorneys to dismiss jurors without stating a reason, for cause challenges require a clear justification. The judge ultimately decides whether to grant the challenge, ensuring that the jury remains fair and unbiased throughout the trial process.