What is the difference between a civil and a criminal charge of fraud?

The difference between a civil and a criminal charge of fraud is the severity of the punishment, as well as the purpose of the court proceedings. Civil fraud involves a private suit to recover restitution for a financial loss or damages sustained due to fraud. Civil fraud charges do not result in jail time and the penalties may include compensatory damages, punitive damages, and injunctive relief. Criminal fraud is a crime and is prosecuted by the state. Criminal fraud involves a defendant accused of intentionally deceiving and taking something of value from another person. A criminal charge of fraud may result in jail time and serious fines and penalties. In the state of Virginia, fraud is a serious crime and is even considered a type of white collar crime. Virginia has enacted a variety of criminal statutes to combat fraud and economic crimes, including larceny, embezzlement, and identity theft. The penalties associated with criminal fraud can be severe and may also include probation, restitution, and forfeiture of assets.

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What is the difference between a civil and a criminal charge of fraud?

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