What is the primary objective of the criminal justice system?

The primary objective of the criminal justice system is to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law. This encompasses a broader mandate beyond just the handling of specific cases; it is about maintaining social order and protecting the rights of both victims and defendants. Justice involves fair treatment, impartial trials, and adherence to legal standards, ensuring that laws are applied consistently and without bias. Upholding the rule of law also entails that all individuals, regardless of status, are held accountable under the same legal principles.

While providing financial restitution to victims is a significant aspect of addressing the harms caused by crime, it is more of a component of the justice system rather than its overarching goal. The focus on rehabilitation instead of punishment emphasizes the aim of reducing recidivism and assisting offenders in reintegrating into society, but it also falls within the broader framework of justice. Maximizing conviction rates, on the other hand, can lead to concerns about fairness and due process; the emphasis should be on just outcomes rather than merely increasing statistics. Thus, ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law captures the essence of the criminal justice system's most fundamental purpose.