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Civil: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition and Implications
Definition & Meaning
The term "civil" refers to matters concerning the state and its citizens. It encompasses the rights and responsibilities of individuals in relation to one another and the government. Civil law deals with legal rights that are distinct from criminal law, military law, or international law. This includes areas such as civil duties, civil litigation, and legal systems derived from Roman law, such as those found in Louisiana.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
Civil law is primarily used in legal contexts that involve disputes between individuals or organizations. This can include:
Civil rights cases
Contract disputes
Property disputes
Family law matters, such as divorce and custody
Users can often manage civil legal matters by utilizing legal templates offered by services like US Legal Forms, which provide ready-to-use documents drafted by legal professionals.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A homeowner sues a contractor for failing to complete renovations as agreed in their contract. This situation falls under civil litigation.
Example 2: A person files a lawsuit for damages after being injured in a car accident due to another driver's negligence (hypothetical example).
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Civil Law System
Notes
Louisiana
Civil law system derived from French and Spanish law
Unique among U.S. states with a civil law tradition.
California
Common law system
Follows the general U.S. common law tradition.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Civil
Relating to citizens and their rights.
Focuses on individual rights and disputes.
Criminal
Relating to crimes and legal punishment.
Involves offenses against the state or public.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you find yourself in a situation that involves civil law, consider the following steps:
Assess the nature of your dispute and gather relevant documents.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you file necessary paperwork.
If the matter is complex or involves significant stakes, consult a legal professional for tailored advice.
Find the legal form that fits your case
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.