What is the difference between law enforcement and police

One of the most resounding distinctions between them is that law enforcement agencies follow the law to the letter. They have no regard for the intention behind a specific clause in the constitution or which context it may apply to. They hold the law as the Gospel truth and follow it without any ifs and buts.

This is the only way that law and order can be maintained in an area. To keep public crimes at bay, they enforce the law and expect obedience in return. There are four theories of legal penalties that the offender will have to pay:. In light of these theories, there are several types of physical punishments designed for criminal offenders. Imprisonment, banishment, sanctions, or the ultimate death penalty are common categories of legal sentences conferred on offenders.

The misunderstanding stems from the idea that both institutions have to deal with the law, but policing is more about the implementation of laws and fighting crimes on the ground. Adhering to the letter of the law is not applicable in this scenario. They need a more holistic approach to deal with offenders and work for the rehabilitation of the community. Invoking the law when and where needed is at the discretion of police officials.

Since the police are responsible for crime control, peacekeeping, and law enforcement, it becomes hard to discern between law enforcement institutions and the police force. The simplest way to understand this difference is by appreciating that policing involves adapting the maxims of law to the case at hand while cooperating with the parties without bending the law.

The primary goal is not to uphold the sanctity of the law—as is the case with law enforcement—but to improve the quality of life for the average citizen. Here are the nine principles of policing :. Laws must not be enforced, instead observed with willing cooperation. A federal-level marshal also assists with the witness protection program. Rangers in law enforcement only work in Texas and have an extensive history in the state. They are at the top of the police forces throughout Texas and oversee the other officers who serve the various communities.

Although these four roles share many similar duties and responsibilities, the key difference is their jurisdiction. A police officer holds jurisdiction over a city or specific area of a region, while a sheriff is responsible for an entire county. A Texas Ranger works as a top police officer in the state, while a marshal enforces the laws of the courts.

Police officers also handle more of the tasks associated with enforcing the laws, including apprehending and arresting suspects, patrolling areas and monitoring individuals who may break laws.

Sheriffs spend more time in the office, handling required paperwork and overseeing the inmates who have already been arrested within the county. Sheriffs are also elected officials, while police officers do not have to be elected by the members of the community to work in this role.

In all states except Alaska, the sheriff is seen as the chief executive officer of the county sheriff's department, operating under the county's government. Alaska does not have counties, which is why it does not have any sheriffs.

Some top jobs in law enforcement allow you to apply your skills and protect the community you serve. Primary duties: Correctional officers oversee individuals who have been arrested and have been sentenced to serve time in prison or jail, are on probation or are awaiting trial. Their duties include supervising inmate activities, searching inmates for contraband items, providing counseling and rehabilitation to criminals, inspecting jail and prison facilities and providing reports on the conduct of those they are assigned to oversee.

Primary duties: Detectives, also called criminal investigators, work with police officers to solve crimes through the investigation of criminal cases. They gather and examine evidence, interview and observe suspects and witnesses, testify in court and maintain thorough records of their activities. Primary duties: Police officers enforce laws to protect life and maintain order within the jurisdiction in which they serve.

The goal of a police officer is to preserve the peace, which they do by apprehending and arresting those suspected of breaking laws, investigating criminal activity, responding to emergency calls, stopping traffic law violators and performing all patrol duties as needed.

Primary duties: Border patrol officers work for an arm of the Department of Homeland Security to monitor and protect the borders of the United States to ensure that illegal substances and individuals who are not authorized do not enter the country. The most common job duties include seizing and inspecting shipments, screening individuals who are coming in and out of the U.

Find jobs. Company reviews. Visit us online or call to learn more about becoming a protector. Goodwin University was founded in , with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes. Skip to content Law enforcement and criminal justice professionals are some of the most essential people today, within our neighborhoods and across the greater nation.

Criminal Justice vs. Law Enforcement Overview As its name implies, criminal justice means the delivery of justice to those who have committed crimes. Those include: Law Enforcement Courts or Judicial System Corrections Law enforcement is an essential piece of the criminal justice system. Law Enforcement Careers Because criminal justice is such a broad field, there are many career opportunities within it. If you are aspiring to pursue a career in law enforcement specifically, you may consider some of these popular job titles: Police Officer — Police Officers typically operate at the local level, working for a city or town department.

Some police officers, however, have special geographic jurisdiction and serve other forces, such as working for public school districts or transportation systems. Sheriffs are usually elected officials. State Trooper — State Troopers are State Police Officers who are often found patrolling state highways, enforcing driving laws, and arresting criminals at the state-level.

Fish and Game Warden — Fish and Game Wardens work outdoors — in forest preserves, public waterways, national parks, and more — to ensure that the wildlife, natural habitats, and visitors are all kept safe.

Security Guard — Security guards can be employed at organizations both small and large, and also by individuals. Security guards are responsible for protecting certain people or property. Law Enforcement Degrees Some schools offer law enforcement degrees, while others offer a broader criminal justice education.