A person cannot be tried twice for the same offense. What is this principle known as?

The principle that a person cannot be tried twice for the same offense is known as double jeopardy. This legal doctrine is enshrined in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution and protects individuals from the emotional, financial, and social hardships associated with being subjected to multiple prosecutions for the same crime. Under this principle, once a verdict has been reached, whether it be acquittal or conviction, the defendant cannot be retried for that offense in the same jurisdiction.

This principle is foundational in criminal law as it upholds the finality of judgments and helps to prevent the government from abusing its power by repeatedly prosecuting someone until they achieve a desired outcome. Understanding this legal safeguard is critical for both legal practitioners and defendants alike, as it impacts trial strategy and the rights of individuals facing criminal charges.