Which body of law prescribes punishments for crimes?

The body of law that prescribes punishments for crimes is Criminal Law. This branch of law is specifically designed to address offenses against the state or public, imposing legal penalties and consequences for actions deemed harmful to society. Criminal law governs both the prosecution of offenses and the defense of those accused of committing a crime. It covers a range of offenses, from minor infractions to serious felonies, and establishes procedures for law enforcement, court proceedings, and sentencing.

In contrast, Civil Law primarily deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, focusing on compensation rather than punishment. Administrative Law governs the regulations and actions of governmental agencies, while International Law pertains to legal agreements and regulations between nations, rather than individual criminal behavior. Each of these areas serves distinct purposes within the legal system, but Criminal Law is uniquely positioned to define and enforce societal norms through punishment.