THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF ENGINEERING

CIVIL LAW

Civil law is that body of law relating to contracts and suits, as contrasted with criminal law. Civil law covers suits of one party by another for such matters as breach of contract or negligence, and as such may have application in scientific and engineering contracts as well certain professional obligations. The standard of proof in civil cases is preponderance of evidence, a greater weight of evidence for than against. This is a weaker standard of proof than exists in criminal cases. Civil law, like all other forms of law, is subject to assessment and criticism in terms of ethics and justice. See also ADMINISTRATIVE LAW and CRIMINAL LAW.

National Academy of Engineering

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