Questions and Answers
What does civil law deal with?
Criminal law deals with disputes between private parties.
False
What is the burden of proof in civil law?
Preponderance of evidence
What is the burden of proof in criminal law?
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Which of the following are examples of civil cases? (Select all that apply)
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Which of the following are examples of criminal offenses? (Select all that apply)
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What type of punishment is typically involved in civil law?
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What type of punishment can be imposed in criminal law?
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Who files a civil case?
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Who files a criminal case?
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In a civil appeal, only the defendant can appeal.
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In a criminal trial, the jury's decision must be unanimous.
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What does a civil jury decision depend on?
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What is required for a criminal jury decision?
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Study Notes
Civil Law
- Governs disputes between individuals, organizations, or both.
- Compensation is typically awarded to the victim.
- Cases can include landlord/tenant disputes, divorce, child custody, property disputes, and personal injury.
Criminal Law
- Addresses crime and the legal punishment for criminal offenses.
- Involves actions defined as offenses against the state or government.
- Examples include theft, assault, robbery, drug trafficking, and murder.
Burden of Proof
- In civil law, the burden of proof is on the plaintiff and is based on "preponderance of evidence" (more likely than not).
- In criminal law, the burden is on the government, requiring proof "beyond a reasonable doubt."
Types of Punishment
- Civil law typically results in compensation for injuries or damages, settling disputes over property.
- Criminal law penalties can include incarceration, fines, or the death penalty, with crimes classified as felonies or misdemeanors.
Case Filing
- Civil cases are initiated by private parties seeking relief.
- Criminal cases are filed by government entities prosecuting offenses.
Appeal Process
- In civil cases, either party can file an appeal.
- In criminal cases, only the defendant has the right to appeal a verdict.
Jury Decisions
- Civil juries follow state laws and are not required to reach a unanimous verdict.
- Criminal juries must reach a unanimous decision for conviction or acquittal.
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Description
This quiz provides flashcards that compare and contrast civil law and criminal law. Each card defines key terms and concepts associated with these two branches of law. Learn the differences, legal definitions, and the implications of each type of law as you study.
