All law related to crime falls under Criminal Law. Substantive criminal laws define crimes and may establish punishments. Usually crimes are categorized as felonies or misdemeanors based on their nature and the maximum punishment that can be imposed. Criminal Law is different from civil law, because it is concerned with punishment of individuals who commit crimes rather than disputes between parties.
Every state has its own criminal code and processes/punishments for crimes. A “crime” is any act or omission in violation of a law. Generally, any act that is threatening, harmful, or otherwise endangering to the property, health, safety and moral welfare of people is considered as crime.
Some questions that are asked in Criminal Law include:
- Did an individual commit a crime?
- Which crime did they commit?
- What evidence supports this claim?
- Does the individual have a defense?