Department of Criminal Justice

Created in 1983 and recodified in 2026, the Department of Criminal Justice (DOCJ) mission is to connect and collaborate with system partners on criminal and juvenile justice policy with the goal of reducing crime and delinquency in Utah. The Department gathers research and data, administers justice grants, and oversees stakeholder boards and commissions - including the Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice - to ensure current and proposed policies are based on sound data and input from all perspectives. The Department is staffed by various experts in their respective fields who assist the Department in fulfilling its duties, while leading and participating in more than 20 commissions, boards, and task forces across the justice system. **Vision** We envision a justice system that is unified across all branches and level of government which: - Serves the community and instills public confidence and support. - Ensures the safety and security of all citizens, provides assistance for victims, and affords a just process for those accused of violating the law. - Is founded on principles of respect for diversity, timely and equal access to services, and a comprehensive approach to criminal and juvenile justice that includes prevention and treatment. **Mission** Our mission is to connect and collaborate with system partners on criminal and juvenile justice policy with the goal of reducing crime and delinquency in Utah. By delivering an objective and wide-ranging research and grant agenda, the Commission ensures current and sought after policies rest on sound data and input from diverse perspectives.