Final answer:
A criminal case involves the government as the plaintiff, with the burden of proof on the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Punishment is the remedy sought. In a civil case, both plaintiff and defendant are private individuals, with a lower burden of proof and the remedy sought is usually monetary compensation or property.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a criminal case, the plaintiff is always the government (either the state or the United States government), and the defendant is the party accused of violating the law. The burden of proof in a criminal case is on the prosecution, and they must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Punishment is the remedy being sought, which can include jail or prison time, or even the death penalty.
On the other hand, in a civil case, both the plaintiff and defendant are private individuals or entities. The plaintiff is the party that has been allegedly harmed by the defendant, and the burden of proof is lower than criminal cases. The plaintiff must provide a preponderance of the evidence to show that the defendant is liable for damages. In civil cases, the remedy being sought is usually monetary compensation or other forms of property.