(a)        The provisions of Chapter 9 of the N.C. Gen. Stat., Jurors, pertinent to criminal cases apply except when this Chapter specifically provides a different procedure.

(b)        The trial judge must decide all challenges to the panel and all questions concerning the competency of jurors.

(c)        The State or the defendant may challenge the jury panel. A challenge to the panel:

(1)        May be made only on the ground that the jurors were not selected or drawn according to law.

(2)        Must be in writing.

(3)        Must specify the facts constituting the ground of challenge.

(4)        Must be made and decided before any juror is examined.

If a challenge to the panel is sustained, the judge must discharge the panel.

(d)       The judge may excuse a juror without challenge by any party if he determines that grounds for challenge for cause are present. (1977, c. 711, s. 1.)

Terms Used In North Carolina General Statutes 15A-1211

  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • in writing: may be construed to include printing, engraving, lithographing, and any other mode of representing words and letters: Provided, that in all cases where a written signature is required by law, the same shall be in a proper handwriting, or in a proper mark. See North Carolina General Statutes 12-3
  • Juror: A person who is on the jury.
  • state: when applied to the different parts of the United States, shall be construed to extend to and include the District of Columbia and the several territories, so called; and the words "United States" shall be construed to include the said district and territories and all dependencies. See North Carolina General Statutes 12-3
  • Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.
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