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

As a result, his state case may come to an end without trial if his defense team's double jeopardy claim succeeds in court. — Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 20 Aug. 2026

But the state of New York offers defendants strong double jeopardy protections; in New York, a prior conviction—either through a guilty plea or a guilty verdict after a trial—for the same offense typically triggers double jeopardy. — Chantelle Lee, Time, 18 Aug. 2026

His attorneys argued that the state's double jeopardy law protects him from being prosecuted and punished twice for the same conduct. — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2026

His attorneys argue that the state charges should be dismissed because proceeding with them would violate his due process rights and the double jeopardy protections against being tried twice for the same crime. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 18 Aug. 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.