What term describes the protection against being tried for the same crime twice?

The term that describes the protection against being tried for the same crime twice is known as double jeopardy. This legal principle ensures that once a person has been acquitted or convicted of a crime, they cannot be subject to another trial for the same offense in the same jurisdiction. This protection is rooted in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and is fundamental to preventing the government from repeatedly prosecuting an individual for the same act, which could lead to harassment and the possibility of wrongful conviction. The essence of double jeopardy is to provide a sense of finality and security in the legal system, ensuring that individuals can move forward with their lives without the fear of being tried again for a matter already resolved.

The other options, while related to legal rights, address different aspects of the judicial process. Self-incrimination refers to an individual's right not to provide testimony that could incriminate themselves. The right to counsel relates to an individual's entitlement to legal representation during criminal proceedings, and the right to a speedy trial ensures that defendants are not subjected to prolonged periods of pre-trial detention or uncertainty. Each of these rights serves important functions in the legal system but pertains to different protections than what double jeopardy provides.