Criminal justice refers to the system of laws, processes, and institutions that are designed to prevent, manage, and punish crime. It encompasses the enforcement of laws by law enforcement agencies, the adjudication of criminal offenses by courts, and the rehabilitation of offenders through correctional facilities or programs. The main components of the criminal justice system include law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections.
Law enforcement agencies investigate crimes, gather evidence, and arrest suspects. The judiciary interprets the law, conducts trials, and determines the guilt or innocence of accused individuals, as well as sentencing those found guilty. Corrections involve managing individuals who have been convicted of crimes, including imprisonment, parole, and rehabilitation efforts aimed at reintegrating them into society.
Overall, the criminal justice system seeks to maintain social order, protect the public, ensure accountability for criminal behavior, and uphold justice through fair legal processes.