How Does Society Respond to Crime?

The criminal justice system is how society deals with people who break the law.

Three Main Parts

1. Law Enforcement: Police investigate crimes and arrest suspects.
2. Courts: Judges and juries decide guilt and assign punishments.
3. Corrections: Prisons, probation, and rehabilitation programs.

How It Works

After someone is accused of a crime, they move through these stages. Each part has its own rules and goals.

Why Is It Important?

This system protects people’s rights, deters crime, and helps society stay safe. But it’s not perfect—sometimes innocent people are punished, or guilty ones go free.