Legal Definitions - jeopardy

Definition: Jeopardy means being in danger of harm or loss. In legal terms, it refers to the risk of being found guilty of a crime during a trial. Jeopardy starts when a trial begins, either when a jury is selected or when the first witness is sworn in a bench trial.

Example: A person is accused of stealing a car. When the trial begins, the defendant is in jeopardy of being found guilty and facing punishment if the prosecution can prove their case.

Example: In a game show, contestants answer questions to win money. If they answer incorrectly, they may lose the money they have already won. This is a different type of jeopardy, but it still involves the risk of loss.

Both examples illustrate the concept of jeopardy - the risk of harm or loss. In the legal example, the defendant is at risk of being found guilty and facing punishment. In the game show example, the contestants are at risk of losing the money they have already won.