What is the primary difference between civil and criminal law?

The primary difference between civil and criminal law lies in the nature of the issues they address. Civil law focuses on disputes between individuals or entities, such as contract disagreements, property disputes, or family law matters. In these cases, the resolution typically involves compensation or restitution to the aggrieved party rather than punitive measures. The goal of civil law is to settle disputes and provide remedies to individuals who have been wronged.

In contrast, criminal law pertains to offenses that are considered violations of laws established by the state, which are seen as detrimental to society as a whole. In criminal law, the state prosecutes individuals or entities accused of committing crimes, with the aim of maintaining public order and safety. The consequences of criminal convictions can include jail time, fines, or community service, reflecting the seriousness of the offenses involved.

This distinction clarifies why civil law is primarily about resolving conflicts between private parties, highlighting the key difference from criminal law, which focuses on offenses against the state and society.