What does the term 'double jeopardy' refer to?

The term 'double jeopardy' specifically refers to the legal principle that prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same offense after either an acquittal or a conviction. This protection is enshrined in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution and is crucial in ensuring that individuals are not subjected to the emotional, financial, and social toll of multiple prosecutions for the same alleged crime.

This principle serves to uphold the finality of criminal proceedings, meaning once a verdict is reached, the government cannot bring the same charges against the defendant again in a different trial. This protection is fundamental in promoting fairness and justice within the legal system, ensuring that defendants can move forward without fear of repeated legal harassment for the same incident.