Which right protects an accused individual from being tried for the same crime twice?

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The protection against being tried for the same crime twice is known as Double Jeopardy. This legal principle originated from the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states that no person shall "be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb." This means that once an individual has been acquitted or convicted of a specific crime, they cannot be retried on the same charges in the same jurisdiction. This right is fundamental to ensuring fairness in the legal system, preventing the state from using its power to repeatedly subject individuals to the stress and potential punishment of criminal trials for the same alleged offense.

In contrast, the rights listed in the other options serve different purposes in the judicial process. The right to a speedy trial ensures that individuals are not subjected to indefinite delays in their legal proceedings. The right to counsel guarantees that defendants have access to legal representation to help them navigate the complexities of the legal system. The right to an interpreter ensures that individuals who do not speak the language of the court can understand and participate in their trial. These rights are important for a fair trial but do not specifically address the issue of being tried for the same crime multiple times.

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