Criminal law is intended to do what?

• A. Enforce contracts
• B. Regulate traffic
• C. Punish criminals
• D. Prevent harm to society

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is that criminal law aims to protect society by preventing harmful acts through defining offenses and prescribing penalties. By setting clear standards of conduct and consequences, it deters people from engaging in dangerous or illegal behavior and provides a framework for holding wrongdoers accountable, which maintains public safety. While punishing criminals is an important function, it’s a means to deter and respond to harm, not the sole purpose. Enforcing contracts is a civil matter, and regulating traffic falls under safety and regulatory measures, but criminal law’s broader aim is to prevent harm to society, making that option the best description.