What is the difference between a criminal case and civil case?

Criminal charges result after an individual commits a crime. They are prosecuted by the State of Illinois in the criminal courts. It is the State of Illinois vs. the defendant. If found guilty, the court determines what punishment the defendant is going to face as a result of the crime. The criminal case is not attached to civil cases; they are two separate actions. A civil case is held in civil court, and both parties usually hire their own attorneys to determine monetary remedies. 

Show All Answers

1. What is a public defender or defense attorney?
2. Who is the defendant/offender?
3. What is a bond hearing?
4. What is the difference between a criminal case and civil case?
5. What is a preliminary hearing?
6. What is a Grand Jury?
7. What is an indictment?
8. What is an arraignment?
9. What is a pre-trial?
10. How can an offender plea not guilty if he/she made a statement to the police or there are witnesses to the crime?
11. Who decides if the defendant pleas guilty or goes to trial?
12. What is the purpose of a trial?
13. What is a sentencing hearing?
14. What is a pre-sentence investigation (PSI)?
15. What is a negotiated or plea agreement?
16. What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
17. What happens if the defendant is sentenced to the Department of Corrections (prison)?
18. How much of the sentence will a defendant have to actually serve?