Causas para impugnar a un jurado en Carolina del Norte

Explicación Simple

En Carolina del Norte, si alguien va a ser jurado, puede ser descalificado por varias razones. Por ejemplo, si tiene un problema de salud, si ya sabe algo sobre el caso o si tiene una opinión fuerte sobre el acusado.

Es como cuando eliges un equipo para jugar fútbol; no puedes elegir a alguien que no sepa las reglas o que ya esté en conflicto con otro jugador.

Ejemplo Práctico

Imagina que en un juicio, Pedro es llamado para ser jurado. Sin embargo, él ya había sido testigo en un caso relacionado con el mismo tema, así que el abogado de la defensa decide impugnarlo porque no puede ser imparcial.

Texto Original del Estatuto (Inglés)

§ 15A-1212. Grounds for challenge for cause. A challenge for cause to an individual juror may be made by any party on the ground that the juror: (1) Does not have the qualifications required by G.S. 9-3. (2) Is incapable by reason of mental or physical infirmity of rendering jury service. (3) Has been or is a party, a witness, a grand juror, a trial juror, or otherwise has participated in civil or criminal proceedings involving a transaction which relates to the charge against the defendant. (4) Has been or is a party adverse to the defendant in a civil action, or has complained against or been accused by him in a criminal prosecution. (5) Is related by blood or marriage within the sixth degree to the defendant or the victim of the crime. (6) Has formed or expressed an opinion as to the guilt or innocence of the defendant. It is improper for a party to elicit whether the opinion formed is favorable or adverse to the defendant. (7) Is presently charged with a felony. (8) As a matter of conscience, regardless of the facts and circumstances, would be unable to render a verdict with respect to the charge in accordance with the law of North Carolina. (9) For any other cause is unable to render a fair and impartial verdict. (1977, c. 711, s. 1.)