Can a preemptory challenge be used to exclude a juror based on their race?

In the context of jury selection, utilizing a peremptory challenge to exclude a juror solely based on their race is unconstitutional and violates the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The landmark case Batson v. Kentucky established that a party may not use peremptory challenges in a discriminatory manner based on race. The ruling emphasizes that such actions undermine the integrity of the judicial process and the principle of fair trial.

Consequently, a party must provide a race-neutral reason for exercising a peremptory challenge if challenged on the grounds of discrimination. This legal principle aims to ensure diversity and uphold the rights of individuals during jury selection, reinforcing the importance of impartiality in the judicial system.