Criminal Justice Practice Exam

The primary purpose of criminal law is to maintain order, protect individuals, and define acceptable behaviors within society. This framework establishes the expectations for behavior that help ensure the safety and security of individuals and communities. By outlining what constitutes a crime, criminal law provides clarity on acceptable conduct, which is essential for the cohesive functioning of society.

Additionally, maintaining order involves not just the punishment of offenders, but the broader goal of preventing chaos and protecting the rights of individuals. This means that criminal law serves to uphold the social contract that allows citizens to live together harmoniously. It provides citizens with legal recourse against those who would infringe upon their rights or safety.

While punishment and deterrence play significant roles within the realm of criminal law, these are seen as means to support the overarching goal of order and protection rather than being the primary purpose themselves. Therefore, the correct answer encapsulates the multifaceted role that criminal law plays in fostering a just and stable society.