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Civil Law (Sociology)
This branch of law involves a dispute between private parties. Civil cases examine tort violations (breech of a duty that was owed), contract violations (breech of a promise that was made), or any other private matter. Civil cases can be decided by a judge or by a jury. The standard of proof to find someone liable or guilty in a civil matter is preponderance ofthe evidence; this is a much lower burden to meet than what is required in criminal cases. If a defendant is found liable, punishment is in the form of compensatory or punitive monetary damages payable to the plaintiff.