What is the difference between a civil action and a criminal action?

A civil action and a criminal action are two different types of legal proceedings in the state of Arizona. In a civil action, a private individual or organization (known as the plaintiff) takes legal action against another private individual or organization (known as the defendant). This is typically done in order to seek compensation for damages or to enforce a contractual obligation. In a criminal action, a government agency (either the state of Arizona or the United States government) brings criminal charges against a person or organization (known as the defendant). A criminal action is brought when someone has done something that is considered a crime, such as fraud or murder. In a criminal action, the defendant can face harsh penalties, such as fines, jail time, or both. The main difference between a civil action and a criminal action is that a civil action is handled primarily by a court to resolve a dispute between two private individuals or organizations, while a criminal action is handled by the government to punish someone for a crime. In a civil action, the plaintiff is seeking damages from the defendant; in a criminal action, the government is seeking a punishment from the defendant. Additionally, the type of evidence needed to prove one’s case in a civil action is generally different than the type of evidence needed to prove a criminal action.

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What is the difference between a civil action and a criminal action?

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