Features of Civil Law

Question 1

What is Civil Law?

Answer 1

The system of law concerned with private relations between members of a community rather than criminal, military, or religious affairs.

Question 2

What does Civil Law aim to do?

Answer 2

It aims to correct unfair situations - often by compensating the victim.

Question 3

Standard or burden of Proof

Answer 3

In civil cases, the burden of proof is on the claimant, and the standard required of them is that they prove the case against the defendant “on a balance of probabilities”. This is unofficially described as the 51% test.

Question 4

Claimant

Answer 4

A person who makes a claim (seeking government aid or a lawsuit)

Question 5

Defendant

Answer 5

The person being accused in a lawsuit

Question 6

Law of Tort

Answer 6

A body of rights used by the courts in civil proceedings

Question 7

Negligence

Answer 7

A failure to act or follow rules which breaches the duty of care

Question 8

Compensation

Answer 8

An amount given which is to recompense for an injury or a loss