Civil penalties are financial punishments imposed by a court or regulatory agency for violations of laws or regulations. Unlike criminal penalties, which can include jail time, civil penalties typically involve fines or other monetary payments. These penalties aim to deter individuals or organizations from engaging in unlawful behavior and to promote compliance with legal standards. Civil penalties can arise in various contexts, such as environmental law, consumer protection, and labor regulations. For example, a company that fails to adhere to environmental regulations may face civil penalties to encourage better practices. The amount of the penalty often depends on the severity of the violation and the potential harm caused.