12 Questions
What is the primary focus of criminal law?
Punishing individuals who harm society
What type of law involves disputes between individuals or entities?
Civil law
What is the purpose of a lawsuit in civil law?
To resolve disputes between parties
What is the main difference between a criminal trial and a civil lawsuit?
The role of the government
What is an example of a situation where contract law might apply?
A person fails to fulfill their obligations in a business agreement
What is a common characteristic of contracts?
They involve an exchange of value between parties
What type of contract is formed when a server at a restaurant takes your order for food?
Oral contract
What is the minimum value required for a written contract to be enforced?
$500
What is the responsibility of the owner in renting out a property?
To keep the property in good repair
What is the area of civil law that involves rules applied to family relationships?
Family Law
What is the term for wrongful actions that cause injury to another person or damage to their property?
Torts
What is the type of tort that is a deliberate act that results in harm?
Intentional tort
Study Notes
Criminal Law vs. Civil Law
- Criminal law deals with people accused of harming society, whereas civil law involves disputes between individuals, companies, or the government
- Criminal law involves crimes against society, while civil law involves disputes arising from harm caused by someone else's actions
Civil Law Branches
- There are four branches of civil law: contract law, property law, family law, and personal injury law
- Each branch deals with specific kinds of legal disputes
Contract Law
- A contract is an agreement between two or more parties to exchange something of value
- One party can sue the other if they fail to keep their promise
- Many everyday actions result in contracts without signing any papers (e.g., ordering food at a restaurant)
- Some contracts must be written, such as those for the sale of anything worth more than $500
- Written contracts can be complex and should be reviewed carefully before signing
Property Law
- Property law includes rules for buying and selling land or buildings
- Owners must have papers proving their right to sell or transfer property
- Property law covers the care and use of property, including landlord-tenant responsibilities
- Disputes can arise over property care and use, and may require court decisions
Family Law
- Family law involves rules for family relationships, including birth, adoption, marriage, divorce, and death
- Civil law governs how property is divided in divorce, and custody and care of children
- Deaths can lead to property disputes, which may require court resolution
Personal Injury Law
- Personal injury law involves wrongful actions causing injury or damage to another person or property
- These cases are called torts
- There are two types of torts: intentional (deliberate acts causing harm) and unintentional (negligent acts causing harm)
Learn about the differences between criminal law and civil law, including the types of cases and disputes they involve, and how they are handled in the legal system.
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