Final answer:
The term for the preliminary examination of prospective jurors to determine their suitability for jury service is called 'voir dire,' which is crucial for maintaining an impartial jury as required by the Sixth Amendment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process described is known as voir dire, which is a French term meaning “to speak the truth.” It is the procedure in jury trials where the judge and attorneys question prospective jurors to determine if they are suitable and unbiased to serve on the jury. This preliminary examination ensures that the accused's right to an impartial jury, as required by the Sixth Amendment, is upheld. The goal of voir dire is to reveal any potential biases or preconceptions jurors may have, due to media exposure or personal experiences, that could impede their ability to impartially weigh the evidence and decide on a verdict solely based on the trial proceedings. Lawyers have the opportunity to challenge potential jurors and ask for their removal if it's believed they cannot be fair and unbiased. In high-profile cases or those that deal with complex emotional or social issues, the voir dire process is especially critical for both the defense and the prosecution to assemble a jury that can fulfill its duty justly.