A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil case meaning a plaintiff can hold the negligent party accountable by forcing them to pay for the wrongful death they have caused. Wrongful death civil lawsuits cannot themselves bring about criminal charges. However, a wrongful death lawsuit can prompt a criminal investigation to ensue.
A criminal case can only be brought forward by a prosecutor, not a civilian. Unlike a civil case, a criminal case can result in legal consequences including fines and jail or prison time.