Whether you’re attracted by criminology, the law system, or the reformation of criminals, the criminal justice industry has a lot to offer. For a variety of reasons, people from various walks of life are pulled to this field.
Even if you’re interested in the profession, you might be curious about what criminal justice entails. So, what is criminal justice?
If you’re interested in learning more, keep reading. You might find that this is the field in which you want to work in the future.
What Is Criminal Justice?
Criminal justice refers to the process of identifying crime. It involves apprehending, judging, and punishing criminals.
“Justice for all” is the goal of the criminal justice system. This entails safeguarding the innocent, convicting offenders, and establishing a fair justice process. In other words, it ensures the safety of our citizens and maintains order all across the country.
There is no single criminal justice system in the United States. Rather, there are a number of separate systems that work together.
Whether it’s a municipal, county, federal, county, or military, how they work depends on the jurisdiction in charge. Different jurisdictions have different laws, agencies, and procedures.
Criminal justice is administered at both the state and federal levels, depending on where the offense occurs.
When most people hear the term, they naturally think of police officers, but the field actually involves a lot more than that. It is divided into three categories: law enforcement, the court system, and corrections.
Many people are required to work in the criminal justice system’s three pillars. Each branch requires a diverse group of personnel to keep it working properly.
Being so, there are various career possibilities widely available in this industry.
Criminal Justice Professionals
Officers in law enforcement monitor their districts and report any criminal behavior they see. They make arrests, conduct investigations, acquire evidence, and testify in court.
The following are examples of common law enforcement positions:
- Police officers and sheriffs
- Investigators and detectives
- Federal agents
Recruiting requirements vary. However, the majority of entry-level police officer positions require a high school education or GED.
Many law enforcement officers choose to obtain a four-year degree with a criminal justice major. This boosts their chances of higher pay and development.
Careers in Court
Prosecutors are lawyers who analyze evidence and decide whether or not to press charges against a person on a state or federal level.
They take cases to court, give evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and bear the burden of proof in their pursuit of convictions.
On the other side of the courtroom, defense lawyers represent defendants who have been criminally charged. These attorneys ensure that their clients are properly represented throughout court proceedings.
Prosecutors represent the government, while defense counsel represents persons accused of crimes.
Both on the prosecution and defense sides, there are various kinds of lawyers, such as:
- City and District Attorneys
- Attorneys General
- Federal Defenders
- United States Attorneys
Many other professionals work inside the justice system to help lead and assist legal proceedings, in addition to lawyers. The following are some of the positions available:
- Judges
- Paralegals
- Court Reporters and Clerks
- Witness Coordinators
A bachelor’s degree in legal studies is suitable if you want to work in the judicial system. This program aids in the development of critical thinking and legal idea fluency, both of which are necessary for success.
Aspiring paralegals can also have specialties. They can perform legal research, prepare documents, and organize materials for court appearances.
Careers in Corrections
Corrections refer to the network of authorities that supervise imprisoned people as well as those on parole or probation.
The individual may be sentenced to jail or prison. Alternatively, they may suffer some other type of punishment. This depends on the seriousness of the offense and the criminal’s background.
In less serious circumstances, criminals may be sentenced to probation instead of jail time. This includes frequent check-ins with parole officers and the imposition of fees or community work.
Some felons may be freed from prison and put on parole, allowing them to serve the rest of their time in their communities under supervision.
Several professionals devote their career paths to the criminal justice system’s corrections division. Here, they supervise and reform convicted criminals. The following positions are included:
- Corrections Officers
- Probation and Parole Officers
- Wardens
- Rehab Specialists
The educational qualifications for correctional officers differ. This depends on whether they work for the municipal, state, or federal government.
A four-year degree is required to work in federal prison, for example. With high school graduation or GED, you can work in prisons in many states.
However, obtaining a 4-year criminal justice degree will set you apart from individuals who have not attended university. Do your research to learn more about obtaining this degree and what it can do for your career.
Change the Criminal Justice System for the Better
So, what is criminal justice? It isn’t just about the police. It’s a huge system that monitors illegal behavior, imposes punishments on individuals who break the law and works to prevent repeat offenses.
From law enforcement to criminal rehabilitation, the criminal justice system relies on devoted experts in all sectors.
Criminal justice professionals are responsible for enforcing and upholding the law, and stepping up to this level of responsibility requires a person who is both passionate and courageous.
Come check out our blog to learn more about criminal justice jobs and how you can get started on the right track.
