What does criminal law typically do?

Criminal law serves a critical role in society by describing unacceptable behavior and outlining the corresponding punishments for these actions. The primary purpose of criminal law is to maintain public order and safety by establishing legal standards that define what constitutes a crime. This framework helps deter individuals from engaging in harmful activities and provides a mechanism for the state to prosecute those who violate the law.

By clearly stipulating which actions are considered criminal and the penalties associated with them, criminal law works to protect individuals and property, uphold social norms, and promote justice within the community. Additionally, it allows for a structured legal process where offenders can be held accountable for their actions, ensuring a degree of predictability and fairness in the legal system.

In contrast, the other options, while related to various aspects of law and governance, do not accurately capture the primary function of criminal law. Personal disputes are typically addressed through civil law rather than criminal law, business practices are primarily regulated by commercial law, and civil rights are outlined in constitutional and civil rights law rather than criminal law.