Criminal justice systems vary in each country regarding their policies and procedures. Every aspect of the criminal justice system has its advantages and disadvantages. The primary purpose of the criminal justice system is to punish criminals, mitigate crime, increase safety, and support a fair justice system. In some cultures, fairness is not always guaranteed as certain laws are expected to be respected. This article will discuss the criminal justice system in the United States, England, and Japan. The criminal justice system in the United States is made up of three parts: the police, the courts, and the prisons (Drakeford, 2011). Each of these parts works simultaneously together, and the work of one influences the work of another. All three parts of the US system were influenced by and derived from English law. To begin with, the role of the police in the U.S. criminal justice system consists of gathering evidence, arresting offenders, testifying in court, and conducting investigations (victimsofcrime.org, 2008). Officers begin by creating a report with all the information they have gathered. Investigations into the crime then begin and the suspect is identified. Once the suspect is believed to have been found, officers can issue a summons for him to appear in court. The case will remain open if sufficient evidence is not gathered (victimsofcrime.org, 2008). Then there is the role of the courts. Court decisions are made by judges who are also the key factor in determining sentences and plea deals. Once an offender is convicted, he or she is sent to jail or prison. Prisons are generally intended for serious crimes, while prison is usually reserved for those who have committed minor crimes. This is about the courts… the focus of the paper… the approach is often overlooked and could be implemented in other criminal justice systems around the world (Lane, 2004). The procedures and policies of each of these three countries differ but still have similarities in some areas. No government is perfect, and most would agree that reforms are needed in each. In the criminal justice system of the United States and the United Kingdom, equality is emphasized and most of the time in these systems people are treated fairly and equally. In the Japanese criminal justice system, resolution of differences on a personal level is encouraged as harmony between individuals is valued in Japanese culture, however, the Japanese system is considered more rigid than those in Western cultures. All criminal justice systems vary accordingly around the world, but most share a common goal and that is to protect their citizens while controlling crime.