What distinguishes criminal law from civil law?

The distinguishing factor between criminal law and civil law is that criminal law involves offenses that are considered crimes against the state. In a criminal case, the government prosecutes an individual (the defendant) for actions deemed to be harmful to society, thus representing the interests of the public. Convictions in criminal cases can result in penalties such as imprisonment, fines, or community service, which serve to deter individuals from committing similar offenses in the future.

This fundamental characteristic of criminal law highlights its purpose: to maintain law and order, protect the public, and deter wrongdoing. In contrast, civil law typically addresses disputes between private individuals or entities, focusing on issues such as contracts, property, and family matters, rather than actions that threaten public safety or welfare.

Understanding this distinction clarifies why the other choices do not adequately capture the essence of what separates criminal law from civil law. For instance, international treaties do not distinguish criminal law from civil law at a fundamental level, and civil law does not primarily deal with state crimes, as this is the domain of criminal law. Furthermore, while civil law may concern public safety indirectly, its main focus is on private rights and obligations rather than state-sponsored enforcement against societal wrongdoing.