7 ‘Criminal law and civil law are completely different’

One of the most important distinctions the legal system makes is between criminal and civil law. You will see that each has its own processes and purposes. However, is it true that they are completely different?

Figure 22 County Court
Figure 23 Old Bailey criminal court

Activity 13 Criminal or civil case?

Allow 3 minutes

For each of the following, decide if they are potential criminal or civil cases.

1. Jennifer is accused of stealing a mobile phone.

Answer

Criminal case

2. Pablo is dismissed from his job so that the manager’s daughter can be given the role.

Answer

Civil case

3. Brian buys a new washing machine which stops working after four days.

Answer

Civil case

4. Samara punches her friend, causing a black eye, after an argument about their favourite band.

Answer

Criminal case