American legal system consists of two types of cases, civil and criminal. Civil and criminal cases differ greatly from each other but also may share similarities in certain situations. Crimes are typically viewed as offenses against the state. These offenses are then prosecuted by the state. Civil cases are generally disputes between individuals or companies regarding the legal obligations and responsibilities owed between one another. Herein lies the main difference. Along with this there are several others to be discussed. In an uncommon case, the same conduct can produce civil and criminal liability.

How the system works is criminal law deals with looking after the interests of the public as a whole. This may involve punishing and rehabilitating offenders, as well as protecting society from harmful people. The government enlists the assistance of the police and prosecutor to put the criminal law into effect. How the government affords these services...
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