What is the primary focus of criminal law?

The primary focus of criminal law is to define specific crimes and defenses. This area of law outlines what constitutes a criminal act, including various offenses such as theft, assault, murder, and more. It also delineates the legal defenses available to individuals accused of these crimes, such as self-defense, insanity, or duress. By clearly establishing what behaviors are deemed unacceptable and what legal justifications exist for those accused, criminal law aims to maintain public order and safety.

Understanding these definitions is crucial for the legal system, as it allows individuals to understand the consequences of their actions and provides guidelines for law enforcement and legal professionals to interpret and apply the law appropriately. This focus is foundational, as it sets the stage for how society recognizes and addresses criminal behavior.