Criminology Term: Double Jeopardy
Double jeopardy is a legal concept in criminology that prevents an individual from being prosecuted or punished twice for the same offense.
The principle of double jeopardy is rooted in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution and is considered a fundamental protection against double punishment and a safeguard for individuals against government abuse of power.
The principle of double jeopardy means that once an individual has been acquitted, convicted, or punished for a crime, they cannot be tried again for that same crime. This prevents the government from using its power to harass individuals with multiple prosecutions for the same offense.
However, there are exceptions to the principle of double jeopardy. For example, if new evidence is discovered, or if a mistrial is declared due to a procedural error, a retrial may be permitted.
Additionally, in some cases, an individual can be tried for the same offense in both state and federal courts since they are considered separate sovereigns.
Double jeopardy is an important aspect of criminal law and serves as a crucial protection for individuals against government overreach. It ensures that individuals are not subjected to multiple prosecutions for the same crime and that the government cannot harass individuals with frivolous charges.
While there are exceptions to the principle of double jeopardy, the fundamental protection it provides is an essential aspect of the criminal justice system.
Double jeopardy is a principle that has been incorporated into the legal systems of many countries around the world, although the specifics may vary depending on the legal system in place.
Nonetheless, it remains a key aspect of criminal law and serves as an important safeguard for individuals against government abuse of power.
