Criminal justice is a system that aims to maintain social order and protect individuals by addressing crimes and their consequences. It involves various components, including law enforcement, the courts, and correctional facilities. Law enforcement agencies, such as the police, investigate crimes and apprehend suspects. The court system then determines guilt or innocence and imposes penalties if necessary. The criminal justice process also focuses on rehabilitation and prevention. Correctional facilities, like prisons and jails, house individuals convicted of crimes, while programs aim to reintegrate them into society. Overall, criminal justice seeks to balance punishment with the goal of reducing future criminal behavior.