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

In Kansas, a civil action and a criminal action are different types of legal proceedings. A civil action is typically brought when one party believes they have been wronged by another party and they want to seek a legal remedy. The primary purpose of civil law is to provide a remedy or restore damages to a person or entity. In civil law, a plaintiff brings a case against a defendant seeking money damages or other forms of relief, such as an order to cease and desist. In contrast, a criminal action is brought by the government against an individual for violating a criminal statute. The primary purpose of criminal law is to protect society by punishing and deterring criminal behavior. In criminal law, the State or Federal Government charges a defendant with a crime and seeks a conviction and punishment, such as incarceration, probation and/or a fine. Ultimately, the primary difference between a civil action and a criminal action is the purpose. A civil action is intended to restore damages to the plaintiff whereas a criminal action is intended to punish and deter criminal behavior.

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

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