Quick answer
A criminal case is brought by the government to punish an offender and requires proof "beyond a reasonable doubt"; the survivor is a witness, not a party. A civil case is brought by the survivor to recover compensation and requires only a "preponderance of the evidence", a lower standard. The two are independent: you can win a civil case even if there was no criminal charge or conviction, and a civil claim does not require a police report.
At a glance
| Criminal case | Civil case | |
|---|---|---|
| Who brings it | The government / prosecutor | You, the survivor |
| Goal | Punish the offender | Compensate the survivor |
| Burden of proof | Beyond a reasonable doubt | Preponderance of the evidence |
| Who controls it | The prosecutor | You and your attorney |
| Outcome | Prison, probation, fines | Money damages, accountability |
| Police report needed? | Yes | No |
Remember: deadlines and rules differ by state. Before deciding anything is too late, check your state’s current law, see rights by state, or talk to a survivor-focused attorney for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. This guide is general educational information. Laws vary by state and change often, so confirm the specifics of your situation with a licensed attorney. Most sexual abuse attorneys consult for free.
Reporting to police or a hotline is free. Civil attorneys who handle survivor cases typically work on contingency, meaning no upfront cost and a fee only if your case recovers compensation.
Often yes. Hotlines are anonymous, and many civil cases can be filed under a pseudonym (Jane or John Doe) with court privacy protections. Ask an attorney about options in your state.
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