What is meant by "criminal procedure"?

The term "criminal procedure" refers specifically to the series of rules and guidelines that govern how criminal cases are processed through the legal system. This encompasses the methods and processes by which laws are enforced, individuals are prosecuted for crimes, and legal protections for defendants are ensured during the criminal justice process.

This includes various stages such as arrest, arraignment, trial, sentencing, and appeals, outlining the rights of the accused and the responsibilities of law enforcement and the courts. Understanding criminal procedure is critical for legal professionals as it ensures that justice is administered fairly and that the constitutional rights of individuals are upheld throughout the legal process.

Other options do not relate to criminal procedure; they either pertain to civil law procedures, such as filing lawsuits or conducting civil trials, or legislative processes, which focus on the creation of laws. Therefore, they do not accurately define the scope of criminal procedure.