_________ is meant to protect the public and prevent or deter criminal behavior.

Criminal law is designed specifically to protect the public and prevent or deter criminal behavior. This branch of law defines specific offenses that are considered harmful to society and establishes punishments for those who commit such offenses. The aim of criminal law is not only to punish offenders but also to act as a deterrent to prevent future crimes by demonstrating that unlawful behavior carries serious consequences. This focus on societal safety and the prevention of harm is why criminal law plays a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting citizens.

Civil law, on the other hand, primarily deals with disputes between individuals or organizations and encompasses matters such as contracts, property, and family law, which do not aim at deterring criminal behavior. Substantive law refers to the set of laws that govern rights and obligations, which includes both criminal and civil law, but it does not specifically focus on the deterrence of crime. Constitutional law involves the interpretation and application of the constitution, which may influence criminal procedures but does not directly target public safety through deterrence.