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

The main difference between a civil lawyer and a criminal lawyer is the type of cases they handle. A civil lawyer deals with disputes between two or more parties, such as a contract dispute between two businesses. These cases may involve disagreements over money, property, or personal injury. On the other hand, a criminal lawyer is responsible for defending individuals or businesses who have been charged with a criminal offense. These offenses can range from minor offenses such as traffic violations, to serious felonies such as assault, robbery, or murder. Civil lawyers typically work on a contingency basis, meaning they are only paid if their client wins their case. Conversely, criminal lawyers may work on either a fee-for-service basis, where they are paid for every hour they spend working on the case, or on a retainer, where the client pays the lawyer a set amount upfront for the duration of the case. In Rhode Island, a lawyer must be licensed by the Rhode Island Bar Association to practice law in the state. To become a lawyer in Rhode Island, a person must have a degree from an accredited law school and pass the Rhode Island Bar exam. Additionally, all lawyers must adhere to the strict ethical guidelines set by the bar association and adhere to the rules of professional conduct.

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