Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A second offense is when someone breaks the law again after already being in trouble for breaking it before. Breaking the law is also called committing a crime or an offense. There are different types of offenses, like stealing someone's things or doing something that is not allowed by law. Some offenses are more serious than others, and some have specific punishments. In some places, if someone commits an offense that is similar to another one they already did, they can automatically get in trouble for both. In England, an arrestable offense is one that can get someone put in jail for five years or more.
Definition: A second violation of the law or crime committed by an individual.
For example, if someone is caught driving under the influence (DUI) for the second time, it is considered a second offense. This means that the penalties and consequences for the crime will be more severe than if it were a first offense.
Another example of a second offense could be someone caught shoplifting for the second time. The punishment for the crime would be more severe than if it were a first offense.
These examples illustrate how a second offense is a repeat violation of the law or crime, and the consequences are more severe due to the individual's previous offense.