- Purpose
Civil trial: resolve private disputes
Criminal trial: punish crimes, protect society
- Parties
Civil trial: plaintiff vs. Defendant
Criminal trial: government vs. defendant
- Burden of Proof
Civil trial: preponderance of evidence
Criminal trial: beyond a reasonable doubt
- Jury Requirement
Civil trial: optional
Criminal trial: constitutional right
- Penalties
Civil trial: money, injunctions
Criminal trial: fines, imprisonment, probation
- Right to Counsel
Civil trial: no free attorney
Criminal trial: free attorney for indigent defendants
- Double Jeopardy
Civil trial: no protection
Criminal trial: protected by 5th amendment
