U. S. Government/Criminal Law vs. Civil Law Notes

Courts resolve two kinds of legal conflicts, civil and criminal

Criminal Case
In a criminal case, a court determines whether a person accused of breaking the law is guilty or not guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony.
 * Criminal Procedure in felony cases
 * 1) Arrested - A person accused of a crime may be arrested if the police have probable cause.
 * 2) Jail or Bail - The accused may be committed to a jail or released on bail.
 * 3) Arraignment - At an arraignment, probable cause is reviewed, the defendant may be appointed an attorney, and a plea is entered: "Guilty or not Guilty".
 * 4) Trial - A court date is set and a trial is conducted
 * 5) Verdict - A guilty verdict (decision) may be appealed to the Court of Appeals or directly to the Supreme Court in certain cases.

Civil Case
In a civil case, a court settles a disagreement between two parties to recover damages or receive compensation
 * Procedure for civil cases
 * 1) Complaint - The plaintiff files a complaint to recover damages or receive compensation
 * 2) Trial - Case can be heard by judge or by jury
 * 3) Verdict - Cases can be appealed

Juvenile Justice
For minors under 18.


 * Judges have great latitude in handling juvenile cases
 * Juveniles who commit serious crimes can be tried as adults