Criminal Justice Paper
University of Phoenix
Criminal Justice System Paper
CJS/200
June 24, 2012
Harold Rankin
Introduction There are three core components of the criminal justice system. The three consist of the law enforcement agencies, the criminal courts, and the correctional agencies. Within the criminal justice system, these three components function cohesively under the legislation and uphold social control within society. Consequently, the system deters crime and punishes individuals who violate laws by serving them with criminal penalties and correctional efforts. However, the criminal justice process consists of a series of procedures starting with an investigation and possibly concluding with the discharge of a convicted criminal from a correctional facility. During the system’s process many determining factors and rules are at the center of the progress.
Components of the Criminal Justice System
Law Enforcement Agencies The first component of the criminal justice system is the law enforcement agencies. These agencies consist of multiple levels which are city, county, state, and federal levels. Their duties involve the enforcement of the legislation of each jurisdiction. When a crime is committed, it is their obligation to investigate the crime and apprehend the offender or offenders who are responsible. Reduction and prevention programs are developed and executed by these agencies in order to maintain public order and ensure community safety. Two other essential services they provide are emergency support and protecting the basic rights for every American.
Criminal Courts The criminal courts are the next component of the criminal justice system. One of the courts obligations is to conduct fair and impartial trials. Once an offender is apprehended by law enforcement, then the courts decide on the criminal cases and ensure due process. After they determine if the offender is guilty or innocent, if guilty, then the courts will impose sentences for
Criminal Justice System Paper
CJS/200
June 24, 2012
Harold Rankin
Introduction There are three core components of the criminal justice system. The three consist of the law enforcement agencies, the criminal courts, and the correctional agencies. Within the criminal justice system, these three components function cohesively under the legislation and uphold social control within society. Consequently, the system deters crime and punishes individuals who violate laws by serving them with criminal penalties and correctional efforts. However, the criminal justice process consists of a series of procedures starting with an investigation and possibly concluding with the discharge of a convicted criminal from a correctional facility. During the system’s process many determining factors and rules are at the center of the progress.
Components of the Criminal Justice System
Law Enforcement Agencies The first component of the criminal justice system is the law enforcement agencies. These agencies consist of multiple levels which are city, county, state, and federal levels. Their duties involve the enforcement of the legislation of each jurisdiction. When a crime is committed, it is their obligation to investigate the crime and apprehend the offender or offenders who are responsible. Reduction and prevention programs are developed and executed by these agencies in order to maintain public order and ensure community safety. Two other essential services they provide are emergency support and protecting the basic rights for every American.
Criminal Courts The criminal courts are the next component of the criminal justice system. One of the courts obligations is to conduct fair and impartial trials. Once an offender is apprehended by law enforcement, then the courts decide on the criminal cases and ensure due process. After they determine if the offender is guilty or innocent, if guilty, then the courts will impose sentences for
References: Schmalleger, F. (2011). Criminal Justice Today: An Introductory Text for the 21st Century, Eleventh Edition, Prentice Hall.