What is the process of examining prospective jurors called?

The process of examining prospective jurors is known as "voir dire." This term, which originates from French meaning "to speak the truth," refers to the procedure where attorneys for both sides assess the potential jurors' backgrounds, biases, and abilities to render an impartial verdict. During voir dire, questions are posed to jurors to uncover any preconceived notions about the case that might affect their judgment. This process is essential in ensuring a fair trial by selecting a jury that is unbiased and has the capacity to evaluate the evidence presented in court fairly.

The other options refer to different legal processes. Cross-examination is the questioning of a witness by the opposing party to clarify, challenge, or discredit their testimony. A deposition is a formal statement taken under oath before trial, often used to gather information or evidence from a witness. Summation is the final argument presented by attorneys to the jury at the conclusion of a trial, summarizing the evidence and making a case for their respective sides. Each of these processes serves a distinct purpose within the legal framework but is unrelated to the examination of jurors.