Crimes and punishment – Removing an individual's freedom due to a crime against society. Criminal law is the broad body of laws, at both the federal and state levels, which address conduct and crimes prohibited by society and are generally designed to protect society. Under criminal law, the burden of proof for each and every element of the crime is greater than a civil action. Criminal law requires the state to prove the guilt of the accused individual or entity "beyond a reasonable doubt." The state would have the burden of proving each and every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Safety professionals should be aware that the criminal law is substantially different than civil law, and the requirements are substantially higher due to the potential of loss of freedom. Of particular importance are the criminal laws potentially applicable to circumstances and situations involving the safety, health, and environmental functions.