Criminal Law vs Civil Law: Which system is better?

What is meant by criminal law?

Criminal law refers to the entity of law structure, which defines criminal offenses, manages the outcome, payment and the ongoing trial of suspected persons. In addition to this, criminal law is also responsible for handling penalties, as well as the way convicted offenders are treated while under jurisdiction. It is a unique law that is focused on assisting organised societies that protect the security of individual interests and ensure the survival of a concerned group. Criminal law is of two types:

•    Misdemeanour –This is a type of criminal offense that is typically perceived as a lower-level criminal offense, which includes minor assaults, traffic offenses or petty thefts. In most countries, the penalty for a misdemeanour crime is typically one year or less.

•    Felony –Such a crime involves serious offenses, such as felonies including murder, manslaughter, drug dealing, rape or robbery. These types of felonies are usually charged with a penalty of one year or more, depending upon the specific nature of the crime and the jurisdiction of the national government where the felony was committed.

What is meant by civil law?

The civil law system is typically based on principles, categories, and rules originating from Roman law. These are found on all continents of the world and at times largely amplified or even altered by the local custom or culture. The civil law tradition places a special focus on individual freedom promotes cooperation between individuals.

It is a comprehensive, well-organized adaptable and primarily legislative system. The civil law is known for its unique features such as clear expression of rights and duties, simplicity and accessibility to the citizen, advance disclosure of rules and a transnational academic doctrine. It is applicable almost everywhere across the globe, including North America, Central, and South America, Continental Europe, Asia, Africa, Pacific islands and regions holding mixed jurisdictions.

How does criminal law differ from civil law?

There are various theories based on whether we should have a criminal law system or a civil system. To begin with, the body of criminal laws varies from civil law, because criminal law penalties involve the denial oftherights and at times imprisonment of the person who has committed a crime. Whereas, civil laws are related to the resolution of legal controversies and involve money damages.

The main difference between the two laws is that while criminal laws regulate crimes committed against the government, the civil laws handle misunderstandings between private parties. Furthermore, criminal and civil cases also differ in terms of the burden of proof, which refers to the minimum obligations that the initiating party must meet, in order to substantiate their case.

If you want to pursue a career that deals with the key legal issues that may arise in the criminal justice system, then taking up criminal law courses can help you achieve that. So apply now, and obtain a specialisation in Energy Law, Criminal Law, Labour Law or Constitution Law, based on your interest.