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Merger Doctrine

What is the “merger” doctrine, and does it apply in Mississippi?

December 15, 2010

Yalobusha County Courthouse - Coffeeville, Mississippi

The “merger doctrine” has to do with the Double Jeopardy Clause, which is included in the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.  Most everyone has a basic understanding of double jeopardy; it prevents you from being tried, convicted, and sentenced for the same crime twice.  The doctrine of “merger” allegedly alleviates problems with double jeopardy.  [...]

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