What does criminal law define?

Criminal law encompasses a broader scope than simply addressing crimes against public order. It is fundamentally concerned with defining conduct that is considered harmful to society as a whole and establishing what actions are categorized as crimes. This includes various classifications of offenses, such as those committed against individuals, the state, and public order.

Criminal law serves to protect societal interests by prohibiting behaviors that threaten safety, security, and public morality. It delineates the types of conduct that can result in prosecution and punishment by the state, reinforcing the social order. For instance, offenses such as theft, assault, and drug trafficking fall under criminal law as they pose risks not only to individuals but to the community and state at large.

While public order crimes are indeed a significant aspect of criminal law, focusing exclusively on this category overlooks the system's comprehensive nature, which aims to prevent and address a variety of offenses affecting both individuals and the larger society.