Question:
Autrefois convict means:
Autrefois convict means:
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The doctrines of “autrefois convict” and “autrefois acquit” protect against double jeopardy — one for prior convictions, the other for prior acquittals.
Updated On: Aug 14, 2025
- Formerly convicted
- Doubtful conviction
- Failed prosecution
- To be convicted
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
The term “Autrefois convict” is derived from old Norman French, historically used in English law.
“Autrefois” means “previously” or “formerly”, and “convict” refers to someone found guilty of a crime.
Thus, the literal meaning is “formerly convicted”.
It is a plea in bar to a criminal prosecution, meaning the accused claims they have already been tried and convicted for the same offence.
This principle is connected to the doctrine of “double jeopardy” — the legal safeguard that prevents a person from being tried twice for the same crime.
Option (b) “Doubtful conviction” implies uncertainty in the verdict, which is not the same as having been previously convicted.
Option (c) “Failed prosecution” means the case did not succeed in court, unrelated to prior conviction.
Option (d) “To be convicted” refers to a future event, not a past conviction.
Hence, “Formerly convicted” is the only correct meaning.
“Autrefois” means “previously” or “formerly”, and “convict” refers to someone found guilty of a crime.
Thus, the literal meaning is “formerly convicted”.
It is a plea in bar to a criminal prosecution, meaning the accused claims they have already been tried and convicted for the same offence.
This principle is connected to the doctrine of “double jeopardy” — the legal safeguard that prevents a person from being tried twice for the same crime.
Option (b) “Doubtful conviction” implies uncertainty in the verdict, which is not the same as having been previously convicted.
Option (c) “Failed prosecution” means the case did not succeed in court, unrelated to prior conviction.
Option (d) “To be convicted” refers to a future event, not a past conviction.
Hence, “Formerly convicted” is the only correct meaning.
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