What is the primary purpose of the Utah Criminal Code?

The primary purpose of the Utah Criminal Code is to define criminal offenses and penalties in the state of Utah. This code outlines what constitutes a crime, categorizes different types of offenses ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, and prescribes the corresponding penalties for those offenses. By clearly delineating these elements, the Criminal Code serves as a foundational legal framework that not only informs law enforcement and prosecutors about what actions are criminal but also guides the public in understanding their rights and responsibilities under the law.

In contrast, guidelines for law enforcement training are typically addressed through separate training protocols or policies, not specifically through the Criminal Code itself. Procedures for civil lawsuits are regulated under civil law statutes, which are distinct from criminal law. Lastly, while the Criminal Code does cover traffic violations, it encompasses a much broader range of offenses beyond that, making traffic regulation only a small part of its overall purpose. Thus, defining criminal offenses and their penalties is the central focus of the Utah Criminal Code.