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Breach Quote by Lawrence M. Friedman

“Criminal law has to do with relations between the misbehaving individual and his government...Criminal law establishes rules of conduct; their breach, if prosecuted and conviction follows, results in punishment.” quote by Lawrence M. Friedman
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“Criminal law has to do with relations between the misbehaving individual and his government...Criminal law establishes rules of conduct; their breach, if prosecuted and conviction follows, results in punishment.”

Lawrence M. Friedman

About This Quote

Source Book: A History of American Law, 1973

Criminal law defines the relationship between individuals who break rules and the state, imposing punishment when those rules are violated.

In simple terms: Criminal law links wrongdoing to state‑enforced penalties.

Key Takeaway

Understand the role of law in regulating behavior.

Themes

law justice society government order

Mood

analytical serious

Type

educational legalistic

When to use this quote

  • courtroom practice
  • policy making
  • law school curricula
  • public education

Key Concepts

legal theory social contract deterrence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does punishment affect deterrence?
  • What alternatives to punishment exist?
A Different Perspective

It may simplify complex social dynamics and ignore rehabilitative aims.

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