How are the institutions of criminal justice in America described in relation to each other?

The institutions of criminal justice in America are best described as a system where one component's actions influence others because they are interconnected and interdependent. This interconnectivity means that decisions made by law enforcement can impact the prosecutorial process, just as the court system's actions can affect policing strategies and sentencing practices. For instance, if law enforcement conducts an investigation that leads to a prosecution, the manner in which that investigation is carried out can affect the outcome in the courtroom, including plea negotiations or trial strategies.

Additionally, the correctional system plays a role in shaping policy and practices within law enforcement and adjudication; how offenders are treated in prisons may influence future crime rates and police practices. This reciprocal influence indicates a dynamic interaction among all components of the criminal justice system, highlighting the complexity of their relationships rather than portraying them as entirely independent or isolated.