Batson challenge

noun

Bat·son challenge ˈbat-sən-

: an objection in which one party argues that the other has used the peremptory challenge to strike one or more prospective jurors from the panel for a discriminatory purpose in violation of the equal protection guarantee of the U.S. Constitution

called also Batson objection

compare third-party standing

Note: Batson challenges were originally applied to racial discrimination in jury selection but are now also applied when gender or sometimes ethnic background is an issue. The party making the objection usually must establish by evidence a prima facie case of discrimination. The other party must then prove a neutral reason for the strike.

Word History

Etymology

from Batson v. Kentucky, 476 U.S. 79 (1986), the Supreme Court ruling that prohibited the striking of jurors on a racial basis

Cite this Entry

Style

“Batson challenge.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/Batson%20challenge. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

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