Criminal Law Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Criminal Law, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Criminal Law?

A set of legal rules and guidelines set aside for any criminal activity that causes harm to the general public.People convicted under criminal law can be given punishment in the form of fines and even imprisonment after the crime has been legally proved.It helps in maintaining welfare and protection of the public.

History and Meaning of Criminal Law

Criminal law is a system of rules that has been in place for centuries to address any criminal activity that can cause harm to the public. It is aimed at punishing individuals for criminal offenses that are deemed to be a threat to society as a whole. Criminal law holds the accused person accountable for their actions and ensures that justice is served. The origins of criminal law can be traced back to ancient Babylonian, Egyptian and Roman societies.

Examples of Criminal Law

  1. Theft
  2. Assault and battery
  3. Homicide
  4. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  5. White collar crimes like fraud and embezzlement.

Legal Terms Similar to Criminal Law

  1. Civil Law - Civil law deals with disputes between people or organizations
  2. Constitutional Law - Constitutional law relates to the interpretation and implementation of the US Constitution.
  3. Administrative Law - Administrative law regulates the actions of government agencies.
  4. Public Law - Public law governs issues that affect society as a whole.
  5. Private Law - Private law deals with disputes between private parties (individuals, corporations, or other entities).