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The legal system is divided into two distinct areas, each with its own set of rules and procedures. While the criminal justice system deals with those who have been accused of a crime, civil law encompasses almost every other type of dispute between individuals, from personal injury suits to contractual disagreements and bankruptcy. In criminal cases and civil disputes, judges have differing sets of powers, and parties must meet separate standards of evidence.

Criminal Trials

In a criminal justice case, the government takes action against an individual who has been accused of a crime. This individual is called a defendant. To prove their case, prosecutors must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant committed the crime in question, after which the individual might be sentenced to prison and forced to pay fines. To prevail, the defendant only needs to introduce reasonable doubt, without conclusively proving their innocence. While criminal cases are typically decided by a jury, the judge uses their own discretion to issue an appropriate sentence for a crime.

Civil Disputes

civil disputesThe civil court system handles a broad array of disputes between individual parties, usually involving money loss or property damage. For instance, an accident victim can file a lawsuit against the individual or organization responsible for their injuries, or a creditor can pursue a borrower for unpaid debts. Divorces and child custody disagreements are also handled in civil court, as well as bankruptcy petitions and boundary disputes between neighbors. Unlike a criminal trial, participants in a civil dispute only have to prove that a “preponderance of the evidence” supports their case.


 

For over 70 years, the skilled attorneys at Zangari Cohn Cuthbertson Duhl & Grello PC have represented clients throughout New England in a wide variety of business civil disputes, from real estate litigation to injury defense. If you need to file a suit, they are here to help you. Visit their website to view their comprehensive list of legal services, and follow them on Facebook for more legal tips and insight. To reach their office in New Haven, CT, Hartford, CT, and Providence, RI, give them a call at (203) 789-­0001 today.

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