Factors that bind the three components of the criminal justice system: Law Enforcement, the Courts, and Corrections

Many factors contribute to holding the components of our criminal justice system together. These components are law enforcement agencies responsible for apprehending criminals, courts of law and fair trial of the accused, and the corrections system which carries out punishments formulated by the judge. Each component has its role to play in maintaining order and peace in society, but many authors contend that of the three, the courts are the most important factor in maintaining the system. In court, the main purpose is to ascertain the truth concerning the offender’s culpability, and the appropriate punishment. To find the truth, defense attorneys and prosecutors fight each other for what they believe is the truth about the client; the defense fights to prove the defendant’s innocence in the case, while prosecutors fight to prove the guilt of the defendant regarding the most serious charge. However, even unconsciously, some degree of corruption can contaminate the proceedings, and create an imbalance in the justice system. Courts are vital in determining the fate of the accused and protecting his or her life, and especially, reputation. A person’s reputation is fragile, and a conviction of a crime can severely damage that reputation, which may result in far fewer opportunities. This paper will discuss the importance of courts and why their legitimacy is the most vital factor in the Criminal Justice system.