Which type of law governs crimes and their punishments?

• A. Criminal law
• B. Civil law
• C. Administrative law
• D. Constitutional law

Answer: (A)

Criminal law is the branch that defines what conduct is illegal (a crime) and what penalties follow if someone is convicted. It covers offenses against the state or society and establishes the procedures for arrest, trial, and punishment. The government prosecutes these cases, and the standard of proof is beyond a reasonable doubt. This is different from civil law, which handles disputes between private parties and seeks remedies like damages; administrative law, which governs rulemaking and operations of government agencies; and constitutional law, which deals with the powers of government and fundamental rights. Because it specifically addresses crimes and their punishments, criminal law is the correct framework here.