Civil Law Cases

CIVIL LAWS

Are also created by the legislature in order to protect the property rights (including bodily injury) of it's citizens. For instance, a person who was injured by a drunk driver can sue that drunk in a civil case and under some circumstances can also sue the bar that illegally served that drunk.

Plaintiff:

A victim can hire a trial attorney to sue the person who caused their harm (defendant). The Plaintiff's attorney must prove up the case "by a preponderance of the evidence."

Defendant:

The defendant then hires an attorney to defend him/her. If the defendant has insurance, the insurance company will hire an attorney to represent him/her.

Judge/Jury:

A judge or a jury will hear the civil case and will decide by a "preponderance of the evidence" if the defendant was at fault, and if so, how much money the defendant will be required to pay to the victim.

Money Damages Only:

In a civil case money damages are the only penalty. Jail and prison are NOT an option in a civil case.