11.15 Criminal Justice

Criminal justice refers to the system of practices, institutions, and processes established by governments to maintain social control, deter and mitigate crime, and sanction those who violate laws with criminal penalties and rehabilitation efforts. It encompasses the entire sequence of activities and roles, from the initial investigation and arrest by law enforcement through the legal proceedings in courts to the correctional and rehabilitative measures implemented for convicted offenders. The primary aim of criminal justice is to uphold the rule of law, protect individual rights, and ensure justice is administered fairly and effectively.

The criminal justice system is a complex network of people and organizations designed to enforce laws, ensure public safety, and administer justice. Key actors within this system include law enforcement officers who investigate crimes and apprehend suspects; prosecutors who are responsible for bringing charges against accused individuals and presenting evidence in court to prove guilt; defense attorneys who represent the accused and ensure their rights are protected; and judges who oversee court proceedings and make rulings based on the law and evidence presented.

Additionally, corrections officers manage the incarceration and rehabilitation of convicted individuals, while probation and parole officers supervise offenders who are serving their sentences outside of prison. Each of these roles is crucial for maintaining the rule of law and delivering fair and impartial justice.

This chapter on the Ohio court system should help you understand the broader criminal justice system because it outlines how various courts operate to enforce laws, adjudicate disputes, and ensure justice is served. By examining the structure and functions of different courts, you should learn about how legal processes work to uphold the rule of law and protect individual rights within the criminal justice framework.