What does the term "criminal justice system" refer to?

The term "criminal justice system" refers to a network of public agencies that collectively oversee crime policy, law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections. This system includes various components such as police departments, courts, and correctional institutions, all working together to maintain social order, prevent crime, prosecute offenders, and rehabilitate those who have committed crimes. Each of these agencies plays a distinct yet interconnected role in ensuring that justice is served and that societal laws are upheld.

In contrast, the other options do not encompass the entirety of the criminal justice system. A private organization enforcing laws does not reflect the public aspect and governmental authority characteristic of the criminal justice system. Similarly, a single law enforcement agency cannot represent the full breadth of the system, as it involves multiple agencies at various levels of government. Finally, while international crime laws do exist, they are not synonymous with the concept of a criminal justice system, which primarily refers to the frameworks and institutions operating within a specific country or jurisdiction to address crime.