The Functions of Criminal Law and Its Task in China

The functions of criminal law play significant role in the theoretical system of criminal law and the explanation of criminal law. The opinions on the functions of criminal law of other countries result from the legal ideas they hold. Since the legal values and the contents of criminal law in China are different from those of other countries, the functions of criminal law are accordingly different. In China, the most important function of criminal law is to maintain public order, which is prior to the protection of human rights as another function of criminal law.