Understanding Criminal Law: What It Is, Careers & More

Criminal law serves two core purposes: protecting society from criminal activity and ensuring fairness in how individuals are prosecuted and rehabilitated. Together, these functions support community stability and help the justice system operate effectively.

The professionals responsible for upholding criminal law play a critical role in maintaining this balance. While the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reports a decrease in both violent and property crime between December 2024 and November 2025, crime remains an ongoing concern.

As a result, there is a continued demand for professionals across the criminal justice system, creating a range of opportunities for those pursuing a relevant degree, such as App State Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BSCJ). Understanding what criminal law is and how different roles contribute to the justice system can help individuals identify a career path that aligns with their interests.

What Is Criminal Law?

Criminal law establishes the rules society uses to define criminal behavior, prosecute offenses and determine penalties for those convicted of crimes. It also helps ensure individuals accused of crimes receive due process while supporting rehabilitation and reintegration efforts to reduce repeat offenses.

Because criminal law governs many stages of the justice process, it includes responsibilities such as:

Defining criminal offenses
Overseeing arrest procedures
Overseeing criminal charges
Managing court proceedings
Defining criminal penalties
Providing criminal treatment and rehabilitation strategies
Supporting reintegration into society after incarceration

Criminal law operates through a network of professionals working in law enforcement, courts, corrections and rehabilitation services. Together, these roles help maintain public safety while supporting the fair administration of justice.

How to Pursue a Criminal Law Career

The path toward a career in criminal law depends on the role an individual wants to pursue. However, most professionals entering the field follow several foundational steps, including education, hands-on experience, skill development, and licensing or certification.

Education

Many careers related to criminal law require at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. While a degree in criminal justice is one of the most common, students may also pursue related fields such as law enforcement, sociology or other social sciences, depending on their career goals. Some professions, such as attorneys, require additional years of education, licensure and specialized training beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Experience

Many criminal law careers require practical experience before professionals can move into more advanced roles. Students often gain this experience through internships connected to their degree programs, which allow them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Entry-level positions, such as paralegal or administrative support roles, can also help individuals build relevant experience within the legal and criminal justice system.

Skill Development

Although careers related to criminal law vary widely, many require similar foundational abilities and skills. Important skills in the field include communication, analytical thinking, attention to detail and problem-solving. Because professionals across the criminal justice system often work with crime victims, offenders, attorneys and law enforcement personnel, interpersonal qualities such as empathy and professionalism are also important.

Licensing and Certification

Licensing requirements depend on the criminal law role being pursued. Private investigators, for example, may need to obtain state licensing before working independently. In roles where licensing is not required, such as paralegal positions, professional certifications can help demonstrate relevant knowledge and skills. Some employers may also prefer or require certifications when evaluating candidates for certain roles.

Criminal Law Careers: Salary and Job Growth

Understanding what criminal law is can help individuals identify career paths that align with their interests and strengths. The following careers represent several paths available to those interested in criminal law and the broader criminal justice system.

Detective

Detectives gather evidence related to criminal cases and investigate the circumstances surrounding crimes. Their responsibilities may include interviewing suspects and witnesses, reviewing criminal records, analyzing evidence and presenting findings during court proceedings. Detectives often work on serious cases involving crimes such as homicides and assaults, helping support criminal investigations and the broader criminal justice process. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for detectives in 2024 was $77,270.

Forensic Science Technician

Forensic science technicians split their time between crime scenes and laboratories, where they analyze physical evidence connected to criminal investigations. At the crime scene, they may photograph the area, document the location of materials and preserve evidence for further analysis. In the lab, they conduct biological and chemical testing, examine DNA samples and prepare technical reports summarizing their findings. The BLS lists the 2024 median annual salary for forensic science technicians at $67,440.

Paralegal

Paralegals assist attorneys by performing administrative duties related to various legal cases. They collect case facts, research case-relevant laws, draft legal documents and obtain formal statements for use in court proceedings. Paralegals may also help attorneys during trials by taking notes, reviewing trial transcripts and managing exhibits. The BLS lists the 2024 median annual salary for paralegals as $61,010.

Private Investigator

Private investigators conduct independent investigations related to personal, legal and business matters. Their responsibilities may include conducting interviews, performing surveillance and researching public or court records to gather information for their clients. Private investigators may work with individuals, businesses or legal professionals, depending on the type of case. The BLS lists the 2024 median annual salary for private investigators at $52,370.

Prepare for a Criminal Law Career

Students interested in the criminal law field can pursue a range of related careers, from roles focused on investigations and public safety to those in legal support and corrections. Many of these careers require knowledge of how law enforcement, courts and corrections work together within the criminal justice system.

App State Online’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program can help students build the knowledge and practical foundation needed for careers connected to criminal law and the broader criminal justice field. The program examines topics ranging from the social factors that influence crime to policing policies and the stages of the criminal process. Because the program is fully online, students can pursue their degree while balancing work and other responsibilities.

Learn how App State Online can help prepare you for a career in this critical field.

Recommended Readings

Basics of Criminal Justice Policy

Juvenile Court vs. Adult Court: Understanding the Processes

What Is Community Corrections?

Sources:

Britannica, Criminal Law

FBI Crime Data Explorer, Home

Indeed, “How To Become a Criminal Lawyer (With Tips)”

Indeed, “How To Become a Paralegal (With Salary and Skills)”

Indeed, “How to Become a Police Detective in 8 Steps”

Thomson Reuters, “What Is Criminal Law?”