Both criminal and civil assault cases use the same definition of “assault.” In both cases, there is a legal question about whether the defendant created a reasonable fear of bodily harm. While both types use the exact definition of “assault,” the consequences are very different. In a civil case, the plaintiff must file a complaint through the civil court system and secure their own legal representative. Civil assault cases usually only involve monetary damages for the plaintiff. A civil assault case will not result in prison or jail time for the defendant. A criminal assault case involves charges brought by the state of Virginia. In these cases, the district attorney or representative of the state brings the lawsuit against the accused person. The plaintiff is not required to secure their own private legal representative. Instead, the state files charges against the defendant, and the defendant should hire an attorney. If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, make sure to reach out to an accomplished assault charge attorney. A criminal conviction has the potential to completely ruin your reputation and prospects.