What legal principle is invoked to prevent someone from being tried for the same crime multiple times?

The legal principle that prevents someone from being tried for the same crime multiple times is known as double jeopardy. This principle is rooted in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which provides that no person shall "be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb." The intent of this protection is to ensure fairness and finality in the legal system, preventing the government from using its power to repeatedly prosecute individuals for the same offenses, which could lead to harassment and oppression.

Double jeopardy applies once a person has been acquitted or convicted, barring a subsequent trial for the same offense. It also encompasses situations where a mistrial is declared, subject to specific legal conditions. This principle is essential in maintaining public confidence in the integrity of the judicial system, emphasizing that once a verdict is reached, the case is considered closed.

In contrast, res judicata deals with civil cases and refers to the legal principle that a final judgment in a lawsuit prevents the same parties from litigating the same issue in a future case. Stare decisis refers to the doctrine of following precedents set by previous court decisions, which helps maintain consistency in legal rulings. Sub judice relates to matters currently under judicial consideration and emphasizes