What is the primary purpose of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure?

The primary purpose of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure is to provide a comprehensive framework for the administration of justice in criminal cases within the state. It outlines the procedures that law enforcement, courts, and other agencies must follow to ensure fair and consistent processing of criminal matters. This includes detailing how criminal investigations are to be conducted, how evidence is to be handled, the rights of defendants, and the steps involved in prosecution and defense.

While the other options touch on important aspects of criminal law, they do not encompass the overall purpose of the Code. Establishing penalties for crimes is certainly a part of the broader criminal justice system, but it is only one piece. Similarly, while the rights of defendants are crucial, the Code provides more than just that—it details the entire process from arrest to trial. Defining law enforcement procedures is also an important aspect, but again, it falls under the wider framework that the Code serves, which is to ensure that justice is administered fairly and effectively throughout the entire criminal process.