You may be wondering about the differences between civil law vs. criminal law. Civil law relates to disputes between individuals or organizations. As a result of the dispute, compensation is awarded to the victim. Criminal law has to do with the body of law that deals with crimes and the legal punishment of those criminal offenses. Criminal law and civil law are two different branches of the legal system. Criminal cases involve misdemeanors or felonies, while civil cases involve small claims, property damage, or personal injury.