1. Criminal vs. Civil Law
Adapted but by Amanda Wally, Katie Rie, Chris Tapia (2008)

2. Criminal Law
Body of law pertaining to crimes against the state or conduct (felonies and misdemeanors) detrimental to society as a whole.
Definition: Protects society and maintains order
Violation of criminal statues are punishable by law. Jail, Prison, Parole, Probation: Community Supervision…

3. Examples of Criminal Law
Murder
Rape
Abuse
Theft
Trespassing
Destruction of private property (Vandalism)

4. Criminal Law Charges are pressed in degrees 1st 2nd 3rd Felony
Misdemeanor
Bail is sometimes set for a person to be released from jail, sometimes people are released on their own recognizance . Arraignment: 1st time a defendant sees judge, bail set, lawyer appointed, plea entered…

5. Civil Law
Civil law deals with private offenses, such as violations of contracts, failure of professional duty (sexual harassment, discrimination), Tort Law, Family Law.
Def: Regulates relationships b/w people.
The standard of proof for crimes is higher than for civil proceedings. ...(beyond a reasonable doubt %; Civil: by a preponderance of evidence 51%
Example: OJ Simpson Trial

6. Examples of Civil Law
Tort Law -is a civil wrong that unfairly causes someone else to suffer loss or harm resulting in legal liability for the person who commits the tortious act.
Marriage
Divorce
Custody
Adoption
Contracts
Order Of Protection

7. Differences
Although civil law is not punishable by jail time- civil and criminal law go hand in hand a majority of the time.
Civil law issues: orders of protection, custody/visitation rights, child support, etc.
Criminal law comes into play when somebody violates court order (breaks an order of protection, or fails to pay their child support)…
There are 12 jurors for a criminal case: All 12 agree
There are usually 6 jurors on a civil case (5/6) (Both vary depending on state) VS

8. Test your knowledge Define: Civil law
List three examples of civil law. 1. 2. 3.
Explain the differences b/w civil and criminal? Give an example in complete sentences.
Define: Criminal Law
List three examples of criminal law 1. 2. 3.
Explain some similarities b/w civil and criminal? Give an example in complete sentences.