Policy Made and Implemented in Criminal Justice Essay

Policy Made and Implemented in Criminal Justice - Essay Example The criminal system is based on the creation of laws, the adjudication of these laws through the courts, and the implementation of correctional processes for various transgressions (Fuller, 2005). An offender would have an initial contact with the criminal system through the police officers, who are the primary enforcers of the laws (Fuller, 2005). These officers are usually also tasked with the investigation of violations of the law and the arrest of suspected or known offenders. As arresting officers, they may sometimes be supported by federal officers, especially where suspects cross state lines or pose a more significant danger to a larger population or territory (Fuller, 2005). Where necessary, the law enforcement agencies, as well as the police officers have the power to apply force and other means in order to serve arrest warrants and ensure public safety (Hanes and Hanes, 2005). Once the criminal offender or suspect is arrested, the criminal court systems are next involved in the criminal justice system. ... In the US, the adversarial system is being; this is where both parties are given the opportunity to present their side before the courts (Friedman, 1993). The case is then awarded to the party who makes the most compelling argument based on legal provisions. The prosecutors bring about charges against individuals or corporate entities for violations of the criminal laws (Friedman, 1993). It is their duty to prove that a crime has been committed by the accused party. On the other side, the defense attorney refutes the evidence presented against the accused and establishes the accused party’s defense (Walker, 1980). The final adjudication is then made by a third party – a judge or a jury. Where the accused party admits guilt, the process would be shorter and the judgment is rendered immediately by the judge. Plea bargaining is also often arranged between the parties in order to establish a compromise while still ensuring that the interes ts of criminal justice are served (Fuller, 2005). After sentencing is carried out by the judge or the jury, the decision is then imposed. For guilty parties, punishment is often based on the offense committed. Punishment often comes in the form of imprisonment or executions with or without corresponding fines and damages. Parole or probation arrangements may be imposed based on the judges’ discretion according to the set circumstances involved (Fuller, 2005). After time served, the criminal is usually released to the general population however, general restrictions may still be imposed on them, including regular reporting to their probation officer, loss of voting privileges, an imposition of fines, and for sexual offenders, inclusion in a sexual offender database (Chambliss, 2001).