What is the difference between civil law and criminal law?

Civil law and criminal law are two distinct branches of the legal system, differing primarily in their objectives, processes, and consequences.

Civil law deals with disputes between private individuals or entities, often seeking compensation or resolution of a specific issue. The primary goal is to compensate the injured party or to enforce a right, and the burden of proof is typically on the party bringing the lawsuit. Examples of civil cases include contract disputes, family law matters, and personal injury claims.

On the other hand, criminal law focuses on offenses against the state or society as a whole. Prosecutors represent the government in criminal cases, aiming to establish the guilt of the accused "beyond a reasonable doubt." The primary purpose of criminal law is to punish the offender and deter others from engaging in similar conduct. Crimes are categorized as misdemeanors or felonies, with potential penalties ranging from fines and probation to imprisonment.

In summary, civil law addresses private disputes with the aim of compensation or resolution, while criminal law deals with offenses against the state, seeking to punish and deter criminal behavior.