What does the term 'double jeopardy' refer to in the context of the Fifth Amendment?

The term 'double jeopardy' in the context of the Fifth Amendment refers to the legal principle that prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same crime. This principle is a fundamental protection for individuals within the legal system, ensuring that once a person has been acquitted or convicted, they cannot be subjected to the same charges again in a different trial. This is intended to prevent the government from using its resources to unfairly harass or prosecute individuals repeatedly.

The protection provided by double jeopardy is essential to uphold the rule of law and the integrity of the legal process, promoting finality in legal decisions and protecting the rights of individuals.