A Critical Evaluation of the Administration of Justice and Theories of Punishment

Abstract

The administration of justice serves as the foundation of any legal system, ensuring the interpretation, enforcement and protection of laws to maintain social order and safeguard individual rights. This study critically explores the institutional framework of justice administration, focusing on key components such as the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, legislative bodies and correctional institutions. It further delves into various theories of punishment—retributive, deterrent, preventive, reformative and expiatory—analyzing their philosophical foundations and influence on modern penal policies. By comparing justice systems across different countries, the research highlights the varying emphasis placed on retribution, deterrence, rehabilitation and restorative justice. It also addresses pressing challenges such as judicial delays, prison overcrowding and the rights of victims, while proposing reforms aimed at enhancing the fairness and efficiency of the justice system. Through a critical examination of the interplay between justice administration and punishment theories, this study contributes to ongoing discussions on legal reform, with the goal of promoting justice, reducing recidivism and fostering a more balanced and humane legal framework.