What is the fundamental purpose of the criminal justice system?

The fundamental purpose of the criminal justice system is to protect the rights of the accused. This principle underscores the commitment to ensuring that every individual charged with a crime is afforded due process, fair treatment, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. These rights exist to uphold the fairness and integrity of the legal process, ensuring that justice is administered without bias or arbitrary decisions.

By safeguarding the rights of the accused, the system reinforces the idea that the legal framework must balance the responsibilities of law enforcement and the prosecution with the fundamental rights of individuals. This focus on rights is essential to maintaining public confidence in the justice system and ensuring that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.