Criminal law

Definition

Criminal law is a body of laws and rules that defines conduct prohibited by the government because it threatens and harms public safety and welfare, prescribing punishment to be imposed for such conduct. It governs offenses including murder, theft, and assault, distinguishing them from civil law matters.

Related terms

Felony: A serious crime, usually punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death.

Misdemeanor: A lesser offense compared to a felony, usually punishable by a fine or jail time of less than one year.

Punishment: The imposition of a penalty as retribution for an offense, which in the context of criminal law includes fines, community service, imprisonment, or death