Merger Doctrine
The principle that lesser-included offenses merge into the greater offense for conviction, preventing multiple punishments for the same conduct.
Encyclopedia entry: Merger Doctrine
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merger doctrine
In criminal law , if a defendant commits a single act that simultaneously fulfills the definition of two separate offenses, merger will occur. This means that the lesser of the two offenses will drop out, and the defendant will only be charged with the greater offense. This prevents double jeopardy problems from arising.
See also: Merger and Trust merger (for other uses of the term).
[Last reviewed in October of 2021 by the Wex Definitions Team
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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.