Civil law is a legal system that deals with disputes between individuals or organizations. It focuses on resolving issues such as contracts, property, and family matters. Unlike criminal law, which involves offenses against the state, civil law aims to provide compensation or restitution to the injured party. In a civil law case, the person who brings the lawsuit is called the plaintiff, while the person being sued is the defendant. The outcome often involves monetary damages or specific performance, rather than punishment. Civil law systems are prevalent in many countries, including those influenced by Roman law.