⇒ Maintaining order: Criminal law provides predictability, letting people know what to expect from others. Without criminal law, there would be chaos and uncertainty.

⇒ Resolving disputes: The law makes it possible to resolve conflicts and disputes between quarrelling citizens. It provides a peaceful, orderly way to handle grievances.

⇒ Protecting individuals and property: Criminal law protects citizens from criminals who would inflict physical harm on others or take their possessions.

⇒ Providing for smooth functioning of society: Criminal law enables the government to collect taxes, control pollution, and accomplish other socially beneficial tasks.

⇒ Safeguarding civil liberties: Criminal law protects individual rights.

⇒ Most academics view the criminal law as having a political function: to maintain order.

⇒ However, Duff argues criminal law enables “perpetrators of public wrongs [to] be called to account” i.e. it allows criminals to be held responsible for their crimes.

⇒ Check out the aims and objectives of the Criminal Justice System, here.