How may a potential juror be excused from serving?

• A. Venire cannot speak, read, or write the English language
• B. Financial hardship
• C. Personal relationship with a party
• D. Past service on a jury

Answer: (A)

Being able to understand and participate in proceedings is essential for a juror. If a potential juror cannot speak, read, or write English, they would be unable to follow testimony, understand questions, or apply the judge’s instructions, which are all necessary to render a fair and informed verdict. That language barrier undermines the ability to serve effectively, so the juror is excused.

Financial hardship, personal relationship with a party, or prior jury service can be reasons someone might be postponed or excused in some situations, but they do not universally prevent someone from serving in the way that not understanding the language would. The clear disqualifier here is the lack of English comprehension, which directly impacts the ability to participate in the trial.