Criminal Law is the body of laws that define criminal offenses, regulate how those suspected of crime are apprehended and charged, and establishes penalties for convicted offenders. It delicately balances the need to deter destructive and hazardous behavior with the protection of individual liberty.
Unlike civil law, which deals with disputes between private parties, criminal law is designed to protect the safety and interests of society as a whole by prosecuting those who commit serious crimes such as murder or rape. It is also sometimes referred to as penal law.
A criminal case begins with a police investigation, which may lead to an arrest warrant or the filing of criminal charges. A jury decides whether the defendant is guilty or not based on evidence presented during the trial. The prosecution must prove a defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt – a high standard that is designed to prevent innocent people from being convicted of crimes. In contrast, the burden of proof in civil cases is lower, requiring a plaintiff to show that their claim or allegations are slightly more likely than not true.
A successful career in criminal law requires a rigorous academic program, extensive research skills and the ability to deal with stressful and complicated cases under tight deadlines. Individuals interested in a career as a criminal attorney should pursue a degree in law from an accredited university and take the bar exam in the state where they intend to practice.