What is the purpose of a criminal case?

The primary purpose of a criminal case is to punish a wrongdoer. Criminal cases are brought by the government against individuals or entities accused of committing a crime, with the goal of enforcing societal rules and maintaining order. The prosecution seeks to hold the offender accountable for their actions, which are considered offenses against the state or public, rather than just private disputes.

In criminal proceedings, the emphasis is on confirming guilt, and if the accused is found guilty, they face consequences such as imprisonment, fines, or probation. This punitive aspect is designed not only to deter the individual from committing further offenses but also to serve as a deterrent to others in society.

Restitution, while important in some cases, is typically more associated with civil cases where the harmed party seeks compensation for their losses. Resolving disputes between individuals and establishing liability are concepts mainly found in civil law rather than criminal law, which centers around the idea of state enforcement and punishment for crimes committed.