RCr 6.06 – Jury Selection and Voir Dire in Kentucky...

Understanding RCr 6.06 – Jury Selection (Voir Dire)

Jury selection is one of the most important phases of a criminal trial. Under RCr 6.06, both the prosecution and defense have the right to question prospective jurors during voir dire to identify bias, prejudice, or other factors that might prevent a juror from being fair and impartial.

What the Rule Covers

RCr 6.06 establishes the framework for selecting a jury panel. Prospective jurors are questioned to determine their qualifications and potential biases. Both sides may challenge jurors through challenges for cause (unlimited, based on demonstrated bias) and peremptory challenges (limited number, no reason required). The goal is to seat an impartial jury of 12 persons (in felony cases) or fewer in misdemeanor cases.

Challenges for Cause

A challenge for cause is used to remove a juror who demonstrates an inability to be fair and impartial. Common grounds include personal knowledge of the case or parties, expressed bias or prejudice, relationship with a party or attorney, inability to follow the law as instructed, and personal experiences that would prevent impartiality. There is no limit on the number of for-cause challenges.

Peremptory Challenges

Peremptory challenges allow attorneys to remove jurors without stating a reason. In Kentucky, each side typically receives a set number of peremptory challenges depending on the severity of the charges. However, peremptory challenges cannot be used to discriminate based on race, gender, or ethnicity under Batson v. Kentucky.

What Defendants Need to Know

Jury selection can determine the outcome of a trial. An experienced attorney knows which jurors are likely to be favorable or unfavorable. The questions asked during voir dire can subtly educate jurors about important defense themes. Pay attention to the jury selection process and share any concerns with your attorney.

How Clark + Harris Can Help

Clark + Harris takes jury selection seriously in every trial in Lexington and Louisville. Call 859-474-0001.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

Related Resources

If this information applied to your situation, the following Clark + Harris guides may also be helpful:

RCr 6.06 – Jury Selection and Voir Dire in Kentucky Criminal Trials