CIVIL vs. CRIMINAL LITIGATION in CALIFORNIA — What Every Consumer Needs to Know
Not all legal battles are fought in the same arena—and knowing which courtroom you belong in can shape the outcome of your case
At R23 Law, we regularly advise clients on whether their situation qualifies as a civil dispute, a criminal matter, or both.
Our R23 Law California Consumer Protection Attorneys focus exclusively on civil litigation—helping individuals sue companies or individuals that have caused financial or personal harm. If you've been wronged and want justice, this guide explains how civil litigation compares to criminal prosecution—and where R23 Law steps in to protect your rights.
Civil Litigation: Where Justice Is Personal—and Financial
Civil litigation involves one person or entity (the plaintiff) bringing a lawsuit against another (the defendant) over a legal wrong that resulted in loss or harm. Common types of civil cases include:
Consumer protection violations (e.g., unfair billing or hidden fees)
Identity theft and credit reporting errors
Auto accidents and property damage
Medical malpractice and product liability
Wrongful death and personal injury
Civil litigation is about restitution—holding the responsible party financially accountable. Unlike criminal court, the focus is not on punishing wrongdoing, but on compensating the victim.
Key Features of Civil Litigation in California:
Standard of Proof: “Preponderance of the evidence” (just over 50% certainty)
Penalties: Usually monetary compensation or injunctive relief
Jury Trial?: Optional, often decided by a judge
Legal Representation: Each party hires their own attorney
Public Record: Yes—unless sealed by the court
R23 Law represents Californians who’ve suffered due to negligence, fraud, or corporate abuse. We handle the entire civil litigation process from investigation to trial, if necessary.
Criminal Litigation: When the State Prosecutes a Crime
In a criminal case, the government charges someone with violating a criminal law. These cases are filed by prosecutors (not victims), and punishments may include jail time, fines, probation, or community service.
Examples of criminal cases:
Theft, assault, or battery
Fraud or identity theft
DUI or drug offenses
Homicide or other violent crimes
Criminal litigation is not designed to compensate victims—it’s focused on punishing offenders and protecting the public.
Key Differences in Criminal Litigation:
Standard of Proof: “Beyond a reasonable doubt” (a much higher threshold)
Penalties: Jail, prison, fines, or restitution
Victim Role: May testify but not in charge of the case
Legal Representation: Public defenders may be appointed
Public Record: Yes
Victims of crime may still file civil lawsuits to recover financial damages, even if a criminal case is also pending. At R23 Law, we often represent victims of identity theft or consumer fraud who were failed by the criminal system but still have civil remedies.
Civil Remedies for California Consumers: When to Call R23 Law
If you've experienced any of the following, your situation likely falls under civil litigation:
Your credit report contains errors that hurt your financial standing
A company signed you up for services without your consent
You’ve been billed for products or services you never received
Your identity was stolen and used to open fraudulent accounts
A loved one was harmed by a defective product or unsafe condition
Our R23 Law California Consumer Protection Attorneys file lawsuits under:
The California Consumer Legal Remedies Act (CLRA)
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
The Unfair Competition Law (UCL)
California’s Identity Theft Laws (Civ. Code § 1798.92 et seq.)
We don’t just file paperwork—we build persuasive, evidence-backed claims that force companies to take responsibility.
What to Expect in a Civil Case with R23 Law
Step 1: Investigation & Demand Letter
We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and send a demand letter outlining your case and what we expect in compensation.
Step 2: Filing the Lawsuit
If the demand is rejected or ignored, we file your case in California Superior Court or Federal Court, depending on jurisdiction.
Step 3: Discovery & Motion Practice
We use depositions, subpoenas, and legal motions to gather proof and build pressure.
Step 4: Settlement or Trial
Most civil cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial—because that’s often what drives fair settlements.
Civil Court Isn’t Just an Option—It’s Your Right
Don’t let companies dismiss your claim with a scripted denial or buried arbitration clause. Civil litigation gives California consumers a powerful way to hold corporations accountable.
At R23 Law, we’ve recovered millions in damages for clients wronged by deceptive business practices, identity fraud, or corporate negligence. If you’re tired of being ignored, gaslit, or stonewalled—it's time to escalate.
Schedule a Free Case Review with R23 Law
Our California Consumer Protection Attorneys are available for free consultations across the state. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
📞 Call Today or Submit Your Claim Online
💼 We Investigate. We Litigate. We Deliver Results.
🛡 Protecting California Consumers from Corporate Abuse
