Legal Definitions - former jeopardy

Former jeopardy refers to the situation where a person has already been prosecuted for a particular crime. This means that they cannot be tried again for the same offense. If a defendant enters a plea of former jeopardy, it is to inform the court that a second prosecution is not allowed.

For example, if someone is accused of stealing a car and is found not guilty, they cannot be tried again for the same crime. This is because of the principle of double jeopardy, which protects individuals from being tried twice for the same offense.

Another example is if someone is charged with assault and the case is dismissed. If the prosecutor tries to bring the same charges against the person again, the defense can enter a plea of former jeopardy to stop the second prosecution.

These examples illustrate how former jeopardy protects individuals from being unfairly prosecuted multiple times for the same crime. It ensures that the legal system is fair and just for all.