California POST Training Practice Test

What type of violations does criminal law address?

1. Private disputes between individuals

2. Non-criminal violations of the law

3. Violations of criminal statutes

4. Administrative infractions

The correct answer is: Violations of criminal statutes

Criminal law specifically addresses violations of criminal statutes, which are laws enacted by legislative bodies that define certain behaviors as criminal and prescribe the penalties for those behaviors. When an individual commits an act that is considered a violation of these statutes, it constitutes a crime, and the government has the authority to prosecute the offender. This legal framework is essential for maintaining public order and safety, as it delineates acceptable behaviors and outlines the consequences for those who violate the law. In contrast, private disputes between individuals generally fall under civil law, which handles matters like contracts, property disputes, and personal injury claims, rather than criminal behavior. Non-criminal violations of the law are typically addressed in civil or administrative contexts rather than criminal law, meaning they do not involve imprisonment or criminal penalties. Lastly, administrative infractions refer to violations of regulations set forth by administrative agencies, which may not necessarily involve criminal implications or the criminal justice system.