The replacement in the Netherlands of a society divided along denominational lines by a consumer-oriented welfare state has radically altered the position of the law. In the 1980's, it became apparent that institutions were not able to meet the increased need for legal care. Therefore, the law is currently in danger of losing its capacity to create order and security, and a strategic reorientation of criminal justice policy is required. Policy proposals for the 1990's reflect the greatly increased demand for legal services. One of the problems requiring particular attention is the enforcement of democratically established rules. The Netherlands Ministry of Justice should step up the implementation of general legislative policy, the administration of justice, the provision of legal assistance, and the provision of care for special categories such as juveniles and victims. The Ministry should also modernize the organization and mode of criminal justice system operation. Police and judicial entities should be reorganized and computerized to deal with contemporary demands. Crime prevention, victim support, and alternative sentences should be given more attention in relation to the policy of social renewal. A detailed discussion of criminal justice policies for the 1990's and the 1990-1994 program of activities in the Netherlands is presented. 60 footnotes, 2 tables, and 8 figures