What are the three main components of the Texas criminal justice system?

The Texas criminal justice system is fundamentally structured around three main components: law enforcement, courts, and corrections.

Law enforcement agencies are responsible for maintaining public order, preventing and investigating crimes, and apprehending offenders. They play a critical role in the initial stages of the criminal justice process.

The courts serve as the venue for legal proceedings, where justice is administered by judges and juries. This component is essential for ensuring that due process is followed, and that individuals accused of crimes receive a fair trial, along with the opportunity for appeals.

Corrections encompass various forms of punishment and rehabilitation for offenders, including incarceration and community supervision programs. This component is tasked with managing the outcome of judicial proceedings, focusing on the reintegration of offenders into society while ensuring public safety.

Together, these three components work collaboratively, forming a cohesive framework that outlines how crime is addressed in Texas, from the moment of offense through to the correctional processes that follow adjudication.