Final answer:
Criminal law involves government prosecution of crimes such as felonies and misdemeanors, requiring proof 'beyond a reasonable doubt,' while civil law deals with disputes between private parties, requiring a 'preponderance of evidence.' Both state and federal courts can hear civil and criminal cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference Between Criminal and Civil Law
The distinction between criminal and civil law is fundamental to the American legal system. In criminal law, the government prosecutes a person for offenses considered to be against society as a whole. Examples include theft, assault, and murder. Offenders may face imprisonment, fines, or other punishments. Crimes are categorized as felonies or misdemeanors, with felonies being more severe.
Civil law, on the other hand, deals with disputes between private parties. One party, the plaintiff, will allege that the other party, the defendant, has caused them harm or injury. In these cases, the defendant may be ordered to pay compensation. Civil cases have a lower standard of proof than criminal cases: a preponderance of the evidence rather than beyond a reasonable doubt.
Importantly, both state and federal courts can hear civil and criminal matters. Therefore, the correct answer to the multiple-choice question is that both state and federal courts hear matters that involve 'c. both civil and criminal law'.
In certain instances, a person may face both criminal and civil proceedings for the same act. A notable example is O.J. Simpson, who, after being acquitted in criminal court, was sued in civil court for wrongful death. The different standards of proof in criminal and civil cases allow for this differentiation.