Double Jeopardy

Everyone has constitutional protection against being tried for the same crime more than once. The double jeopardy rule for the United States is found in the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution and prevents the government or other legal entities from pursuing persecution of an individual for a specific crime in special cases. By providing certain circumstances in which people are protected from retrial or conviction, the government protects people from suffering doubly for one crime.

If you fear you are being accused of a crime for which you have already been tried, the Milwaukee double jeopardy lawyers of Hart Powell, S.C. may be able to shield you from facing another trial. Their deep understanding of the ins and outs of criminal defense laws and methodologies equips them with the ability to often achieve the best possible results. Contact us at (414) 271-9595 to learn more about how our experienced criminal defense attorneys can serve you.

Parts of Double Jeopardy

The double jeopardy provision within the Constitution grants several protections because it specifically prohibits:

  • Prosecution after acquittal
  • Multiple punishments
  • Prosecution after specific mistrials
  • Prosecution after conviction

It is important to note that the double jeopardy rule protects citizens from facing trial for the same crime more than once, but does not prevent prosecution for other crimes that occurred at the same time. This means if a person committed more than one illegal act at a time and is acquitted of one, he or she can still legally be tried for the others.

Contact Us

If you think you are being accused of a crime for which you have already been to court, the Milwaukee double jeopardy defense lawyers of Hart Powell, S.C. will fight to protect your rights. Call us at (414) 271-9595 to speak with a member of our experienced legal staff.

Written by Michael Hart & Craig Powell

Last Updated : January 13, 2016