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

Civil actions and criminal actions are distinct legal proceedings that are pursued within the court system. In a civil action, one party (referred to as the plaintiff) files a lawsuit against another party (referred to as the defendant). The plaintiff typically seeks financial compensation from the defendant for an alleged wrong or injury. In a criminal action, the State of Hawaii prosecutes an individual for a violation of the law. The State is the plaintiff in these cases and seeks to prove in court that the defendant has committed a crime. If the defendant is found guilty, they may be subject to fines, probation, or even imprisonment. The primary difference between a civil action and criminal action is the issue of guilt or innocence. In a civil action, the court will decide who is more likely to be in the right, and may order the defendant to pay compensation to the plaintiff. In a criminal action, the court must determine if the defendant is guilty or innocent of the crime in question. If the defendant is found guilty, they may face a range of penalties.

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

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