What does 'double jeopardy' mean in criminal law?

In criminal law, 'double jeopardy' refers to the principle that prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same offense. This is a fundamental protection in many legal systems, ensuring that once a person has been acquitted or convicted of a crime, they cannot face further legal action for that same charge. The underlying rationale is to protect individuals from the emotional, financial, and social burdens of repeated trials for the same act, as well as to uphold the integrity of the judicial process. This principle is enshrined in law to prevent government abuse of power and to ensure finality in legal proceedings.