Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

Criminal law is the body of law that defines behaviors deemed unacceptable by society and establishes the punishments for engaging in those behaviors. It delineates offenses against the state or public and includes various crimes, ranging from minor infractions to serious felonies.

Under criminal law, actions such as theft, assault, and murder are specifically categorized as crimes, and corresponding penalties such as fines, imprisonment, or community service are prescribed. This legal framework is essential for maintaining public order and safety, as it sets clear boundaries for acceptable conduct and provides consequences for violations.

The other legal categories mentioned do not specifically focus on unacceptable behavior in the same way. For instance, civil law typically addresses disputes between individuals or organizations, focusing more on compensating the wronged party rather than punishing the wrongdoer. Statutory law refers more broadly to laws enacted by legislatures, which can include both criminal and civil laws, and regulatory law involves rules created by governmental agencies to manage and oversee specific industries or activities.