Penal code

Penal Code is a legal document which compiles all, or a significant amount of, a particular jurisdiction's criminal law. Typically a penal code will cover all relevant definitions, establish the types and degrees of punishment, and will establish the procedures to be followed in dealing with crime.

Overview

A Penal Code is a document that compiles all, or a significant amount of, a particular jurisdiction's criminal law. In some jurisdictions, such as Italy and Spain, the penal code is compiled in a single legal act. In other jurisdictions, such as Germany and Austria, the penal code is part of a comprehensive system of laws.

History

The concept of a penal code dates back to ancient times, with the earliest known example being the Code of Hammurabi in ancient Babylon. The modern concept of a penal code was first developed in the 18th century by the Italian jurist Cesare Beccaria, in his treatise On Crimes and Punishments.

Structure

A typical penal code will include definitions of crimes, including both misdemeanors and felonies, as well as the procedures to be followed in dealing with them. It will also establish the types and degrees of punishment, which can range from fines and community service to imprisonment and, in some jurisdictions, capital punishment.

Penal Codes by Country

Different countries have different penal codes, reflecting their unique legal traditions and societal norms. For example, the United States has a federal penal code, but each state also has its own penal code. Similarly, in Canada, the federal government has jurisdiction over criminal law, but the provinces have jurisdiction over the administration of justice, including criminal procedure.

See Also

• Criminal Law
• Criminal Procedure
• Misdemeanor
• Felony
• Capital Punishment