Understanding California’s New Peremptory Challenge Law: What Trial Attorneys Need to Know

Join Martin I. Aarons of Aarons | Ward, APC as he breaks down California’s recently enacted peremptory challenge reform, applicable to criminal jury trials since 2022 and now applies to civil jury selection starting January 1, 2026. This program will explain how Code of Civil Procedure § 231.7 replaces traditional Batson/Wheeler procedures and imposes stricter standards for objecting to discriminatory use of peremptory strikes, including expanded grounds and presumptively invalid reasons. Attendees will learn practical strategies for navigating objections under the new law and how courts will evaluate stated reasons for challenges.

The Litigation Section is chaired by Rachael Kogen.