What does the term 'double jeopardy' refer to?

The term 'double jeopardy' specifically refers to the legal principle that prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same crime after an acquittal or conviction. This principle is rooted in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which protects against being subject to multiple prosecutions for the same offense.

When a person is tried and found not guilty, the state cannot bring them to trial again for that same offense, ensuring that individuals have finality in their legal proceedings. This protection helps preserve the judicial system's integrity and prevents the abusive practices that may arise from repeated prosecutions.

In the context of the other options, being acquitted twice for the same crime or being sentenced for multiple crimes do not accurately reflect the definition of double jeopardy, nor does being accused of a crime without evidence fit this legal concept. The core focus of double jeopardy is the prevention of multiple trials for the same charge.