What are the differences between civil and criminal antitrust violations?
Antitrust law in California is designed to ensure businesses compete fairly and do not form a monopoly that could harm the public. There are two types of violations of antitrust laws: civil and criminal. The main difference between civil and criminal antitrust violations is how they are enforced. Civil violations are enforced by private individuals or groups seeking to protect their own interests. Civil violators are subject to civil penalties, such as fines, which are generally imposed by the court. Civil violators may also be ordered to cease their activities or to make changes to their business practices. Criminal antitrust violations, on the other hand, are enforced by the state or federal government. Criminal violators are subject to criminal penalties, such as jail time or large fines. Criminal violators may also be ordered to cease their activities or to make changes to their business practices. Moreover, criminal antitrust violations are much more serious than civil violations and can result in criminal prosecution and imprisonment. In California, antitrust law is enforced by the California Department of Justice. If any business is found to be in violation of the antitrust laws, they can be fined or shut down. Both civil and criminal antitrust violations can be brought before the court to seek either damages or to obtain an injunction to stop the business practices. It is important to understand the differences between civil and criminal antitrust violations in order to make sure you are acting responsibly and within the law.
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