What is the difference between civil litigation and criminal litigation?

Civil Litigation and Criminal Litigation are both legal processes through which a dispute between two or more parties is resolved. However, they have some significant differences. Civil Litigation generally involves a dispute between two or more people or entities in which one party claims that the other party has caused them some type of harm. The plaintiff, or the claimant who brings the case, must prove that the defendant, or the person or entity they are accusing, is responsible for the harm that was done. Typically, the plaintiff must show that the defendant was negligent, careless, or intentionally caused the harm. If the plaintiff can prove this, they are usually entitled to financial compensation from the defendant. Criminal Litigation, on the other hand, involves matters of public concern and involves alleged wrongs against society as a whole. Consequently, criminal cases are typically prosecuted by the government. In a criminal case, the government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused committed the crime. If they are successful, the defendant may face fines, jail time, or other forms of punishment. Essentially, the primary difference between civil litigation and criminal litigation is the burden of proof and the type of dispute being resolved. In civil litigation, the plaintiff must prove their case, while in criminal litigation, the government must prove its case. Additionally, civil litigation generally involves disputes between individuals or entities, while criminal litigation focuses on public offenses and protecting society as a whole.

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