double jeopardy

noun

1

: the prosecution of a person for a second time for the same offense : two adjudications for one offense

2

: considerable danger or trouble from two sources

Examples of double jeopardy in a Sentence

constitutional protections against double jeopardy

Recent Examples on the Web

Prosecutors have said that since Mangione was not prosecuted for federal firearms offenses, there is no double jeopardy if the state level ones remain on the table. — Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 2026

The hearing Monday began with Martin Weinberg arguing on Clancy's behalf on the issue of double jeopardy. — Penny Kmitt, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026

Prosecutors have yet to announce next steps should Sullivan not grant the defense’s double jeopardy motion. — Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2026

Her defense team moved to dismiss the charges against Clancy on the grounds of double jeopardy — a law that prevents defendants from being prosecuted more than once for the same crime. — Alicia Victoria Lozano, NBC news, 29 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Legal Definition

double jeopardy

noun

: the prosecution of a person for an offense for which he or she has already been prosecuted see also jeopardy compare merger sense 3

Note: The Fifth Amendment to the Constitution states that no person shall “be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb.” The double jeopardy clause bars second prosecutions after either acquittal or conviction, and prohibits multiple punishments for the same offense.