Which of the following is NOT one of the main components of the criminal justice system?

The correct answer identifies social services as not being one of the main components of the criminal justice system. The criminal justice system is primarily composed of three core components: law enforcement, the courts, and corrections.

Law enforcement agencies are responsible for the prevention and investigation of crimes, as well as apprehending offenders. The courts serve to adjudicate cases, ensuring justice is served through legal proceedings and protecting the rights of the accused and the victims. Corrections involve the management of individuals who have been convicted of crimes, including imprisonment, parole, and rehabilitation programs.

While social services can play a supportive role in addressing underlying issues related to crime, such as mental health, poverty, and substance abuse, they are not an official component of the criminal justice system. Their focus is more on community welfare and support rather than the processes of arrest, trial, and punishment that define law enforcement, the judiciary, and corrections.