what are the chief distinctions between the civil and criminal law?

Answer 1

the penalty - money vs. jail

Answer 2

The most basic distinction is that if found guilty of criminal law you are subject to fines and/or jail. In civil law, if found responsible, a person may be required to pay a judgment and/or be compelled to commit a required act or be prohibited from committing same.

Answer 3

Criminal law is defined by statute (laws) passed by legislature. They are classified as either misdemeanor (minor) or felony (major). You can (in most cases) be arrested and go to jail if convicted. You can also be fined if found guilty. The standard of proof to be convicted for a violation of criminal law is evidence 'beyond a reasonable doubt'. The burden of proof is on the prosecution. In other words, they must prove that you did it. It is not up to you to prove that you didn't do it. The laws for admissability of evidence is also very strict.

Civil laws are violations for which you cannot be arrested. You can be fined if found liable (or guilty) but you cannot go to jail. The burden of proof is less than for a criminal violation and the laws for admissability of evidence are less strict. Civil violations include (in some states) seat belt laws, smoking in public buildings, etc. Also, when you are sued by someone, these cases are heard as civil proceedings. This would be like a foreclosure on mortgage or someone who is suing another for damages for breach of contract etc.

I hope this explanation helped you.

Jim Reske
Port Charlotte, FL

Answer 4

Civil means you're acting out against the community - like flag burning. Criminal means you're doing it to commit a crime.

Answer 5

Civil is monetary, criminal is acts of violence or illegal