Criminal prosecution involves:
• State/district attorney as prosecutor
• Charges against drunk driver
• "Beyond reasonable doubt" standard
• Penalties: jail, fines, license suspension
• No direct compensation to victim
Criminal DUI Cases
Civil Lawsuits
Civil lawsuits involve:
• You (victim) as plaintiff
• Lawsuit against drunk driver
• "Preponderance of evidence" (51%)
• Goal: monetary compensation
• Can include punitive damages
Both cases proceed independently.
• You (victim) as plaintiff
• Lawsuit against drunk driver
• "Preponderance of evidence" (51%)
• Goal: monetary compensation
• Can include punitive damages
Both cases proceed independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for both cases?
The DA handles the criminal case. You need your own lawyer for the civil lawsuit to recover compensation. We focus on your civil case.
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