NCJ Number
184060
Date Published
2000
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses the civil justice system, core elements and legal aspects of civil litigation, and how victim service providers can play a significant role in helping victims who seek justice through civil litigation.
Abstract
There are two distinct jurisdictions for justice relevant to victims of crime: criminal and civil. Criminal courts deal with that aspect of the justice system that determines guilt or innocence with regard to crime and metes out criminal sanctions. Victims can use the civil justice system to pursue their own private actions against perpetrators for the recovery of monetary damages as well as for justice. The chapter examines distinctions between the criminal and civil justice systems; the basics and terminology of civil litigation; types of lawsuits typically brought by victims; defenses to civil litigation; proving damages in civil lawsuits; the benefits and limitations of victim civil litigation; and recommendations regarding civil remedies to victim service providers and allied professions.