Final answer:
The criminal justice system in a federalist system like the U.S. divides responsibilities between the federal government and state/provincial governments. The federal government handles treaties and homeland security, while both levels can tax and build infrastructure. States enforce local laws and possess reserved powers in areas like public health and traffic regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The criminal justice system encompasses several entities that enforce laws, administer justice, and implement punishments. In the United States, this system is governed by a framework of federalism, where power is divided and shared between the federal government and state/provincial governments. This separation and cooperation between different levels of government help maintain a balance within the system.
Federal Government
The federal government has specific powers like negotiating treaties and providing homeland security. It also offers financial assistance to states for public services like education and healthcare. Moreover, both federal and state governments can collect income and corporate taxes, fund and maintain highways, and make and enforce laws.
State and Provincial Governments
States retain reserved powers, including regulation over areas not controlled by the federal government. They manage local criminal justice procedures, set and enforce driving laws, and govern matters of public health and safety, such as helmet and DUI laws. Concurrent powers shared with the federal government allow both levels to work collaboratively on criminal justice issues.
Over time, federalism has evolved to enhance cooperation, with governments at various levels often depending on each other to effectively achieve objectives in criminal justice and other public service domains.