Which branch of law involves the enforcement of the criminal code and violations of societal duties?

The chosen answer pertains to criminal law, which is the branch of law that deals specifically with crimes and their punishments. It encompasses the rules and statutes that define conduct prohibited by the government because it threatens and harms public safety and welfare. Violations of criminal law are considered offenses against the state or society as a whole, rather than simply against individual victims.

Criminal law is enforced through various mechanisms, including law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional institutions. Offenses can range from minor infractions to serious felonies, and the legal proceedings can involve a range of consequences, from fines to imprisonment.

In contrast, civil law deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, often involving the compensation for damages caused by one party to another. Family law focuses on matters such as marriage, divorce, custody, and adoption. Contract law governs agreements made between individuals and entities, ensuring that promises are honored. None of these branches pertain to the enforcement of the criminal code or the protection of societal duties, which is why they are not the correct answer.