The discussion considers the decisions to invoke the criminal law in response to violence, the pretrial detention of alleged violent offenders, sentencing options, deterrence and capital punishment, treatment approaches, recidivism, public attitudes, and cost considerations. The principles established by the United Nations are also outlined. The analysis emphasizes that both the interests of justice and the enormous costs of imprisonment point to the need to identify and offer suitable treatment programs to offenders who can be rehabilitated. It is also important to society that acts of violence and perpetrators be strongly denounced. However, imprisonment should be reserved as a last resort, and strategies should pursued to reduce violence through policies related to the family, employment, and education. Tables, illustrations, and 65 references.