What are the three primary institutions of the criminal justice system?

The three primary institutions of the criminal justice system are the police, courts, and correctional facilities. Each of these components plays a vital role in the functioning of the justice system.

The police are responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public order, and protecting citizens. They are often the first point of contact in the criminal justice process, tasked with investigating crimes and apprehending offenders.

The courts serve as the venue for adjudicating criminal cases, where legal disputes are resolved, and justice is administered. They provide a structure for interpreting laws, facilitating trials, and ensuring that the rights of defendants and victims are upheld.

Correctional facilities are where individuals who have been convicted of crimes serve their sentences. This includes prisons and jails, which are designed for the rehabilitation of offenders and the protection of society by managing those who have violated the law.

Recognizing these three components is essential for understanding how the criminal justice system operates as a whole, as each institution interacts with and supports the others in managing crime and administering justice within society.