Which subcategory of criminal law specifically defines offenses?

Substantive criminal law is the branch of law that defines specific offenses and prescribes punishments for those offenses. It outlines what behaviors are considered criminal and establishes the legal consequences for those actions. This includes statutes that articulate the specifics of crimes such as theft, assault, murder, and other criminal activities. Substantive law is essential because it provides the foundation for criminal liability by detailing what constitutes a crime, thus enabling individuals and society to understand the limits of acceptable conduct and the penalties that can be imposed for violations.

In contrast, procedural law governs the methods and processes through which substantive laws are enforced, including rules of evidence, court procedures, and the rights of defendants during trials. Statutory law refers to laws enacted by legislative bodies and can encompass both substantive and procedural aspects, as it involves the codified rules that specify what constitutes criminal behavior. Regulatory law involves regulations created by government agencies, which may specify how substantive laws are applied in particular industries or areas. While all these subcategories relate to law, it is substantive criminal law that specifically delineates offenses and their corresponding legal consequences.