What is the difference between civil law and criminal law?

Civil law and criminal law serve distinct functions within the legal system, and understanding this difference is crucial. Civil law primarily addresses disputes between private individuals or entities, focusing on resolving issues like contracts, property disputes, family matters, and personal injury claims. The goal in civil law is typically to provide compensation or restitution to the harmed party rather than to punish the offender.

On the other hand, criminal law is concerned with actions that are considered offenses against the state or public. It encompasses laws that prohibit behaviors deemed harmful to society, imposing punishments such as imprisonment, fines, or community service on those found guilty of such offenses. The state prosecutes individuals accused of crimes, representing the interests of society as a whole.

This distinction clarifies how the two branches of law operate, highlighting their purposes and the parties involved. Understanding this fundamental difference is essential for grasping how legal systems function.