What branch of law addresses crimes and their punishments?

Criminal Law is the branch of law that specifically deals with crimes and the punishments associated with those crimes. It defines what constitutes criminal behavior, categorizes offenses, and establishes penalties for those found guilty of such acts. The primary purpose of criminal law is to maintain public order and safety by deterring harmful behaviors and ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions.

This branch of law includes various areas such as misdemeanors and felonies, as well as the processes through which offenders are prosecuted and sentenced. Understanding criminal law is crucial for probation officers, as they play a significant role in supervising individuals who have been convicted of crimes and are now serving probation instead of, or in addition to, incarceration. This interaction requires a firm grasp of the legal frameworks that govern criminal offenses and the implications of those laws in their daily duties.