Autrefois (adverb):
1. In the past; formerly; previously.
Example: “She was a famous actress autrefois, but now she leads a quiet life.”
2. At some point in the past; at a previous time.
Example: “Autrefois, this area used to be a bustling market.”
3. In a different era or historical period; in times gone by.
Example: “Autrefois, people relied on horses for transportation instead of cars.”
4. In a different context or situation; under different circumstances.
Example: “Autrefois, he would have never agreed to such a proposal.”
Note: Autrefois is a French word commonly used in English to refer to events, situations, or conditions that occurred or existed in the past.
Autrefois is a legal doctrine that prevents a person from being tried for the same offence more than once. It is based on the principle that a person should not be subjected to double jeopardy, which means being prosecuted or punished twice for the same offence. The doctrine applies when the following conditions are met: (1) the person has been acquitted or convicted of the offence in a previous trial, (2) the previous trial was conducted by a court of competent jurisdiction, and (3) the offence charged in the subsequent trial is the same as or substantially similar to the offence charged in the previous trial. Autrefois can be invoked as a defence by the accused to prevent the prosecution from proceeding with the subsequent trial. However, there are exceptions to this doctrine, such as when new evidence emerges or when the previous trial was tainted by a fundamental error. Overall, Autrefois serves as an important safeguard to protect individuals from being subjected to multiple prosecutions for the same offence.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.
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