Criminal Justice: Overview
Criminal Justice: Overview
- Rudolph Alexander Jr.Rudolph Alexander Jr.College of Social Work, The Ohio State University
Summary
The criminal justice system traces its roots to ancient times. When the 13 original colonies were formed, they brought many of the laws and legal processes from England. Traditionally, the criminal justice system is viewed as including law enforcement, judiciary, and corrections. However, state legislatures and Congress must be viewed as essential components of the criminal justice system because they pass laws that influence the other three components. A number of controversial practices and policies exist within the criminal justice system. Social work, which has had a long involvement in the criminal justice system, including spearheading the creation of the juvenile justice system in the United States, is involved in all phases of the criminal justice system.
Subjects
- Criminal Justice
- Ethics and Values
- Macro Practice
- Race, Ethnicity, and Culture
- Social Justice and Human Rights
- Social Work Profession
Updated in this version
Section “Law Enforcement” expanded with new content. Statistical information updated throughout the article.
