Chapter 1: What is Criminal Justice?

Flashcards for Chapter 1: What is Criminal Justice?

Criminal Justice

The system of practices and institutions used by society to enforce laws, maintain social order, deter crime, and sanction those who violate laws.

Three primary components of the criminal justice system

Law enforcement, the court system, and corrections.

Responsibilities of law enforcement agencies

Enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and maintaining public order.

Function of the court system

Ensures that justice is administered fairly through legal processes like trials and hearings.

Corrections

Manage individuals accused or convicted of crimes, including prisons, probation, parole, and rehabilitation programs.

Beginning of the criminal justice process

Investigation and arrest of suspects.

Pretrial activities

Arraignment, bail, and plea bargaining.

Adjudication

Determines the outcome of a case, typically through a trial.

Sentencing

Where a convicted individual receives their punishment.

Implementation of sentencing in the corrections stage

Incarceration, probation, or other forms of supervision.

Consensus Model

The components of the system work together harmoniously to achieve justice.

Conflict Model

The components often operate in competition, with self-serving goals that can lead to friction.

Crime Control Model

The efficient and effective enforcement of laws to maintain public safety and order.

Due Process Model

The protection of individual rights and ensures that the criminal justice process is fair and just for all individuals.

Priority of the Crime Control Model

Prioritizes public safety and crime prevention, often at the expense of individual liberties.

Priority of the Due Process Model

Prioritizes individual rights and legal protections, sometimes at the expense of efficiency in the criminal justice process.