Criminal law refers to a body of laws that govern criminal offenses. These are acts or omissions that are punishable by the state and can result in fines, imprisonment, community service, probation, or other forms of rehabilitation. Criminal law is designed to protect society from harm and to hold individuals accountable for their actions. It covers a wide range of offenses, including murder, assault, theft, fraud, drug possession, and many others. The specific laws vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally speaking, criminal law seeks to punish those who break the law while also providing rehabilitation opportunities for those who are willing to change their behavior.