When talking about retribution what is the goal in criminal justice?

In criminal justice, the goal of retribution is to ensure that offenders receive a punishment that is proportionate to the crime they committed. This concept is rooted in the belief that individuals should be held accountable for their actions and that justice requires a moral response to wrongdoing. Retribution aims to uphold social order by reinforcing societal norms and deterring future criminal behavior, while also providing a sense of closure to victims and society. Ultimately, it focuses on the idea of "just deserts," where the punishment fits the nature and severity of the offense.