recuse

verb (used with object), re·cused, re·cus·ing.

1. to reject or challenge (a judge or juror) as disqualified to act, especially because of interest or bias.

verb (used without object), re·cused, re·cus·ing.

2. to withdraw from a position of judging so as to avoid any semblance of partiality or bias.

verb US, Canadian and Southern African

1. (tr; reflexive) to remove from participation in a court case due to potential prejudice or partiality

v.

late 14c., “to reject another’s authority as prejudiced,” from Old French recuser (13c.), from Latin recusare “make an objection against; decline, refuse, reject; be reluctant to,” from re- (see re-) + causa (see cause (n.)). Specifically, in law, “reject or challenge (a judge or juror) as disqualified to act.” The word now is used mostly reflectively. Related: Recused; recusing.