When certain conduct is dangerous to citizens or deemed damaging to society as a whole, it is termed a crime and is punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. Statutes are enacted to deliver justice to the victim. A person suspected of criminal activity is charged and can be convicted based on his or her admission of guilt or after trial.
The overall process consists of investigation, arrest, conviction, and sentencing. At all stages, the person is entitled to certain fundamental rights including the right to an attorney and to a speedy trial.