CJI is an independent statutory inspectorate with responsibility for inspecting all aspects of the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland apart from the judiciary.  It also inspects a number of other agencies and organisations that link into the criminal justice system.

CJI uses inspection to help strengthen public confidence in the agencies that make up the criminal justice system.

It endeavours through its work to promote the effectiveness, efficiency and even-handedness of the criminal justice system.  It also seeks to secure improvement and greater co-operation between the various statutory and voluntary organisations to provide a better justice system for the whole community in Northern Ireland.