In civil law proceedings, the action is brought

by an individual who has suffered loss and the aim is to provide a remedy,

normally in the form of monetary compensation.

In criminal law proceedings, the action is

brought by the State on behalf of society as a whole and the aim is to punish

the wrongdoer by imposing a sanction such as a fine or jail term.

In a civil action, the plaintiff needs to

establish (on the balance of probabilities) the truth of her or his claim.

‘On the balance of probabilities’ is a higher standard

of proof than ‘beyond reasonable doubt’.