Which characteristic is true of criminal procedure?

A key characteristic of criminal procedure is that it operates as a contest between the prosecution and the defense. This adversarial system is designed to ensure that both sides present their arguments and evidence before an impartial judge or jury, allowing for a balanced examination of the facts and legal standards. The prosecution seeks to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, while the defense aims to protect the defendant's rights and challenge the evidence against them. This dynamic highlights the procedural fairness that is crucial in a criminal justice system.

The other options do not accurately represent the nature of criminal procedure. For example, administrative hearings involve different processes typically associated with regulatory issues rather than criminal matters. Additionally, criminal law is distinct from civil law, which deals with disputes between individuals or organizations rather than crimes against the state. Lastly, while the right to a jury is fundamental in many criminal cases, it is not required for all cases; some may be tried by a judge alone, particularly in certain situations like minor offenses or where the defendant waives that right.