what does the term double jeopardy mean
That would be the right to not be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb, as the Fifth Amendment states. What exactly does that mean? The general definition of double jeopardy is that it protects people from being prosecuted for the same crime twice. So if you're charged with a crime, tried, and acquitted, the government can't try you again in the hopes of convicting you. But there are limits on how far that protection goes.
Double Jeopardy Protection Basics. The Double Jeopardy clause in the Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution provides that No person shall ... be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb.. Most states have the same guarantee for defendants appearing in state court.