Which branch of law is primarily concerned with defining offenses and punishing offenders?

• A. Statutory law
• B. Administrative law
• C. Criminal law
• D. Constitutional law

Answer: (C)

Criminal law focuses on defining offenses and punishing offenders. It specifies which conduct is illegal, the penalties that apply, and the procedures for charging, trying, and punishing those who break the law. This is distinct from statutory law (the written statutes created by lawmakers), administrative law (rules and decisions of government agencies), and constitutional law (interpretation of the Constitution). In short, criminal law provides the framework for what counts as a crime and how offenders are punished.