What is the difference between civil and criminal cases?

The Differences Between a Criminal Case and a Civil Case. The American legal system is comprised of two very different types of cases, civil and criminal. Crimes are generally offenses against the state, and are accordingly prosecuted by the state. read more

Criminal Cases. A person accused of a crime is generally charged in a formal accusation called an indictment (for felonies or serious crimes) or information (for misdemeanors). The government, on behalf of the people of the United States, prosecutes the case through the United States Attorney's Office if the person is charged with a federal crime. read more

The primary difference between civil cases and criminal cases is the end result sought for in them. In a criminal case, what is sought for is punishment of the accused. In a civil case, a variety of prayers may be sought by the Plaintiff - a declaration, an injunction, a decree for damages etc. read more