How do civil laws differ from criminal laws?

Civil law and criminal law serve distinct purposes within the legal system. Civil law fundamentally focuses on resolving disputes between individuals or entities. These disputes can involve issues such as contracts, property, and personal injury, where the primary goal is to seek compensation or remedy for the aggrieved party.

On the other hand, criminal law is concerned with offenses that are viewed as crimes against society as a whole, such as theft, assault, and murder. In these cases, the government prosecutes the offender, aiming to uphold public order and ensure justice.

The choice that correctly identifies this distinction highlights that civil law is focused on resolving individual disputes, while criminal law addresses violations that impact society at large. This understanding is crucial for recognizing the different legal frameworks that guide how various types of conflicts are addressed in the judicial system.