Rule 231.Number Reduced by Challenges
Last verified June 28, 2026
Full Text of Rule 231
Plain-English Summary
Rule 231 keeps the panel full. If for-cause challenges reduce the number of jurors to fewer than 24 in district court, or fewer than 12 in county court, the court orders more jurors drawn from the wheel or central jury panel or summoned, as that county's practice provides, and their names are written on the list in place of those set aside. The newly added jurors may also be challenged for cause.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if too many jurors are struck for cause in Texas?
Under Rule 231, the court draws or summons additional jurors to refill the list, and those replacements may themselves be challenged for cause.
Where do the extra jurors come from under Rule 231?
From the wheel or the central jury panel, or by summons, whichever practice the county follows. Their names replace those set aside for cause on the list.
Can a replacement juror drawn under Rule 231 be challenged for cause too?
Yes. Rule 231 lets a party challenge the newly drawn or summoned jurors for cause the same as the original panel.