What is the difference between criminal court and civil court when it comes to liquor liability claims?

In Maryland, the difference between criminal court and civil court when it comes to liquor liability claims is significant. In criminal court, a person is accused of breaking a law that carries a criminal penalty. The state or federal government serves as the plaintiff, while the accused party is the defendant. If the defendant is found guilty, they may be subject to criminal punishment, such as jail time or a fine. In civil court, a person is accused of wrongful conduct or negligence, but they are not necessarily accused of breaking a law. Instead, one party is suing another party, usually for monetary damages. The plaintiff typically seeks compensation for physical injury, emotional harm, or property damage. In civil court, the party found responsible for the harm may be liable to pay monetary damages. When it comes to liquor liability claims, a person or business may be held liable for an injury or death caused by a person’s consumption of alcohol. In Maryland, either criminal or civil court may hear these claims. In criminal court, the state may prosecute the party that supplied the alcohol, while in civil court the injured person or their family may sue the party that supplied the alcohol. If the court finds in favor of the plaintiff in civil court, the liable party may be required to pay monetary damages.

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