A criminal case involves the government, typically a prosecutor, charging an individual or entity for breaking the criminal statutes. These cases are meant to punish and deter criminal behavior with consequences like imprisonment or fines.

Civil cases, on the other hand, are disputes between two private parties and/or corporate entities. Usually, they involve claims related to contracts, personal injury, discrimination, wrongful termination, abuse, etc. While criminal law is focused on punishment, civil law is much more focused on compensation for damages.

Understanding the differences between criminal and civil cases is vital for anyone who may find themselves in one.

Criminal defense attorneys take on misdemeanors such as DUIs, disorderly conduct charges, and theft. They also handle high-stakes felonies such as assault, robbery, and even murder cases.