Civil cases involve disputes between individuals or organizations, typically over issues like contracts, property, or personal injury. In these cases, the party that brings the lawsuit, known as the plaintiff, seeks compensation or specific performance from the other party, called the defendant. The outcome usually results in monetary damages or an order to fulfill a legal obligation. Criminal cases, on the other hand, are initiated by the government against individuals or entities accused of violating laws. In these cases, the prosecutor represents the state, and the goal is to determine if the defendant committed a crime. If found guilty, the defendant may face penalties such as fines, probation, or imprisonment.