What branch of government includes the courts that determine criminal guilt or innocence?

The judicial branch of government is responsible for administering justice and interpreting laws through the court system. It plays a crucial role in determining criminal guilt or innocence by providing a structured environment for legal proceedings. This branch includes various levels of courts, such as trial courts, appellate courts, and in some cases, supreme courts, which examine evidence, hear testimonies, and apply the law to the facts of each case.

In the judicial branch, judges and juries assess the facts presented during trials and make decisions that uphold the rule of law. This ensures that individuals who are accused of crimes receive a fair trial, and that justice is served in accordance with established legal principles. By functioning as an impartial arbiter, the judicial branch protects the rights of both the accused and the victim, maintaining balance within the legal system.

The executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws, while the legislative branch is tasked with creating laws, neither of which is directly involved in determining guilt or innocence. The oversight branch is not an officially recognized branch of government in the context of determining judicial outcomes. Thus, understanding the distinct role of the judicial branch is essential in grasping how criminal justice operates within the framework of government.