Understanding Our Judicial System — Civil vs. Criminal Law

by Tim O’Hare

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How well do you know our judicial system? Do you know the differences between civil and criminal law?

The majority of legal cases are either a civil or criminal case. However, there is also an area of law known as administrative law, which deals with governmental entities, such as in social security disability cases, or other matters before governmental entities.

In a criminal case, a local, state or federal prosecutor prosecutes someone accused of wrongdoing on behalf of the people. On the other hand, a civil case consists of two or more private parties in a dispute, where one party is seeking financial restitution, such as in a personal injury case, contract or business dispute or will contest. A civil case cannot result in jail time for the defendant, as might be the result of a criminal case.

Civil lawyers represent clients in claims before a lawsuit is filed, as well as in lawsuits, whereas criminal lawyers work cases within the criminal justice system. Unlike in many criminal cases, defendants in civil cases are not entitled to a lawyer at no cost if the party cannot afford to hire an attorney.

A lawyer who passes his or her bar exam is able to practice either civil or criminal law.  Some, but not many, do both.  But, it is allowed.  One day, a lawyer may defend an accused in a criminal case, the next day, he might file bankruptcy on behalf of a client, and the next sue a negligent party in a wrongful death case.

At O’Hare and Koch Law Firm, we focus on nothing but personal injury law. Our experience has proven we are good at what we do, and that we know what we are doing in personal injury cases. We believe focusing our concentration in one area is better than attempting to practice any and every kind of law.

If you need a lawyer, for any case, call O’Hare and Koch Law Firm. Even if your case doesn’t fall under personal injury law, we are happy to offer a free referral to another reputable attorney we know and trust.

If you are looking for a personal injury attorney with integrity, who will take the high road in your case, contact the experienced legal team at O’Hare and Koch Law Firm. We will help you receive all due compensation for your injury or loss.

Call O’Hare and Koch Law Firm for your FREE Case Evaluation 


972-960-0000 or Toll-Free 888-960-0020

 

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Written by:
David Koch
David is a member of the American Bar Association, Texas Bar Association and Dallas Bar Association. He is admitted to practice in all Texas courts, as well as U.S. Federal Courts in the Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western Districts of Texas. David handles every case like he is helping a member of his own family and has consistently received excellent results for his clients in over 30+ years of practice. He has tried over 50 cases to verdict and has obtained many million+ dollar results for his clients.