What is the jury selection process called?

The jury selection process is referred to as voir dire, which is a French term meaning "to speak the truth." During this process, potential jurors are questioned by the judge and attorneys to determine their suitability for serving on a jury. The goal is to ensure that jurors can be impartial and fair in their decision-making, which is vital for the integrity of the trial.

Voir dire allows the parties involved to assess any biases, preconceived notions, or conflicts of interest that a juror might have regarding the case. This process is critical because the right to an impartial jury is guaranteed under the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that defendants receive a fair trial. By using voir dire, the court aims to form a jury that can objectively evaluate the evidence presented during the trial.

This understanding of the voir dire process distinguishes it from the other terms listed. Trial selection, pre-selection, and jury formation are not commonly recognized terms in the legal context of selecting juries, making voir dire the correct and widely accepted terminology for this essential component of the judicial process.