What is the difference between criminal and civil law?

Criminal and civil law are two distinct types of law. Criminal law is a body of laws that define and regulate crime, while civil law is concerned with the resolution of non-criminal disagreements between two or more parties. Criminal law deals with the prosecution of individuals who are alleged to have committed acts against the public or society at large. It is typically enforced by a prosecuting attorney on behalf of the state or federal government. A criminal offense is defined as a serious offense and can result in major consequences if convicted. Types of criminal offenses include murder, rape, theft and fraud. Civil law is concerned with resolving disputes between two or more parties by having a judge or jury make a legal decision. Disputes can range from disagreements involving contracts, property ownership, torts and other types of injuries. The law governing civil matters in Virginia can be found in the Virginia Code. Unlike criminal law, a civil dispute does not result in the court imposing criminal penalties, but may result in money damages or an order requiring one party to take certain actions. In Virginia, criminal cases are typically handled in district or circuit courts, while civil cases are heard in the court of claims, the general district court and the circuit court. It is important to remember that criminal law and civil law are two distinct branches of the law and should not be confused. Civil law cases involve private disagreements between individuals, whereas criminal law cases involve an offense committed against the state or public.

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What is the difference between criminal and civil law?

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