What does substantive criminal law primarily deal with?

Substantive criminal law primarily deals with the definition and elements that constitute a crime. This area of law outlines specific behaviors or actions that are considered offenses against society and details the necessary elements that must be proven for an individual to be convicted of a crime. For example, substantive criminal law will specify what actions constitute theft or assault, including the intent and circumstances surrounding the act.

Understanding these definitions is crucial for law enforcement, legal practitioners, and the judiciary, as it determines how laws are applied and enforced. While the other choices refer to important aspects of the legal system, such as enforcement methods, court procedures, and consequences of crimes, they do not directly address the defining characteristics and elements of criminal offenses themselves, which is the primary focus of substantive criminal law.