Understanding Civil vs
. Criminal Law: Key Differences Explained
School
American InterContinental University**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
CRJS 205
Subject
Law
Date
Dec 10, 2024
Pages
2
Uploaded by DeanLion4867
Wednesday, October 13, 2021To:Sarah JonesCC:Bentley C. Adams III, Esq.RE:The Differences between Capital and Civil LawHello Mrs. Jones, I’m writing to explain to you the difference between civil and criminal law, because it relates to your son’s currentsituation. The difference between civil and criminal is Civil Law is when someone sues another for compensation due to personal injury or breaking of contract, like a car accident where someone is looking for damages from theother driver. The target is to make the hurt target “full” again by receiving money, not to punish the other person. Criminal Law is when someone is accused of committing a crime against society, like theft or assault, and the government prosecutes them to possibly face jail time or fines.In a criminal case, the prosecution has to prove “beyond a reasonable doubt”, that the defendant committed the crime. This is a very extremely high standard, meaning the jury must be almost completely certain of the defendant’s guilt before convicting. In a civil case, the plaintiff only has to prove their case by a “preponderance of the evidence,”meaning more than 50% of the evidence points to the defendant’s responsibility.A capital offense is a crime that can result in the death penalty,like murder in certain circumstances. A non-capitaloffense is any other crime that does not carry the possibility for a death sentence, and usually results in a prison sentence or fine.Facing a criminal charge doesn’t guarantee a lengthy sentence for your son, the outcome depends on the specific charges and evidence. Non-capital offenses won’t lead to death sentence, which is important to remember. SEND
Sincerely, [JaLisha Davis]Adams Legal123 A Street, Suite #5Denver, CO 90203