Rule 228."challenge for Cause" Defined

Last verified June 28, 2026

In one sentenceRule 228 defines a challenge for cause as an objection that a juror is legally disqualified or, in the court's view, unfit to serve, and lets the court hear outside evidence on the challenge.

Full Text of Rule 228

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A challenge for cause is an objection made to a juror, alleging some fact which by law disqualifies him to serve as a juror in the case or in any case, or which in the opinion of the court, renders him an unfit person to sit on the jury. Upon such challenge the examination is not confined to the answers of the juror, but other evidence may be heard for or against the challenge.

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Plain-English Summary

Rule 228 sets out what a challenge for cause is: an objection to a juror based on some fact that the law says disqualifies the person from serving — in this case or any case — or that, in the court's opinion, makes the person unfit to sit on the jury. When such a challenge is made, the inquiry is not limited to the juror's own answers; either side may offer other evidence for or against the challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a challenge for cause in Texas?

It is an objection that a juror is legally disqualified or, in the court's opinion, unfit to serve. Under Rule 228, the court may consider evidence beyond the juror's own answers in deciding it.

What two grounds support a challenge for cause under Rule 228?

A fact that disqualifies the juror by law — either in this case or in any case — or a fact that, in the court's opinion, makes the juror unfit to sit. Rule 228 covers both grounds.

Is a challenge for cause limited to what the juror says on questioning?

No. Rule 228 lets either side offer other evidence bearing on the challenge, so the inquiry is not confined to the juror's own answers.

Source & verification. Rule text and the official Notes and Comments are reproduced verbatim from the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Tex. R. Civ. P. 228), published by the Texas Judicial Branch (txcourts.gov). Promulgated by the Supreme Court of Texas. The plain-English summary is original and draws on official sources. Last verified June 28, 2026. · Official source

Also known as: challenge for causechallenge for cause definedjuror disqualificationTRCP 228