Criminal statutes proscribe Group of answer choices a the prosecution of public officials by private individuals. b the relief available when a person’s rights are violated. c wrongs committed against society for which society demands redress. d the prosecution of private individuals by other private individuals. Criminal statutes proscribe Group of answer choices a the prosecution of public officials by private individuals. b the relief available when a person’s rights are violated. c wrongs committed against society for which society demands redress. d the prosecution of private individuals by other private individuals.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: c. wrongs committed against society for which society demands redress.
Explanation:
Criminal statutes are laws enacted by legislative bodies to define actions that are considered offenses against society as a whole. These laws are designed to maintain public order and safety by prohibiting conduct that threatens or harms individuals or the collective good. When someone violates a criminal statute, it is viewed as a wrong not just against the victim but against society as a whole, and the government (usually through a prosecutor) brings charges against the accused.
Key points to support this understanding:
- Purpose of Criminal Law:
Criminal law seeks to deter harmful behavior, punish offenders, and rehabilitate them while protecting society. Crimes like theft, assault, or murder disrupt societal norms, and the state assumes responsibility for prosecuting offenders on behalf of society. - Distinction from Civil Law:
Unlike criminal law, civil law deals with disputes between private individuals or entities, such as breach of contract or personal injury cases. Civil cases typically focus on providing relief (e.g., monetary compensation) for the aggrieved party rather than punishing the wrongdoer. - Examples of Criminal Conduct:
Actions such as robbery, arson, or fraud are examples of crimes that criminal statutes proscribe. These acts are considered harmful to society, and penalties like imprisonment, fines, or probation are used to address these wrongs. - Role of the Government:
Because criminal acts harm society, the state has the authority to prosecute offenders even if the victim does not wish to press charges. This is why criminal law emphasizes public interest.
Thus, criminal statutes primarily address wrongs against society, ensuring accountability and promoting justice for all.