Oklahoma Civil Law

Rick J. Henthorn, PLLC is an experienced civil lawyer practicing in Oklahoma.

What is Civil Law?

In civil matter, the controversy is between two or more "people" ("people" can include individuals, businesses or government agencies). Most often, the result is an award of money to be paid by one party to the other. The judgment is imposed to make the aggrieved person "whole" for the harm that has been caused by the other. A judgment in a civil matter does not include the imposition of a criminal sentence.

How does Civil Law differ from Criminal Law?

In criminal matters, action is taken by the "state" (either federal, state, or local government agencies) against an individual for a violation of the law. A criminal matter can result a sentence such as a fine, probation or time in jail. The sentence is imposed upon a defendant who pleads or is found guilty to keep him from acting in the same manner in the future and also to deter others from acting in a similar manner. Since a criminal matter can result in the "state" taking away a person's freedom, there are additional constitutional protections built into the rules of criminal procedure.

Rick J. Henthorn, PLLC is an experienced Civil Law attorney with many cases argued in Oklahoma. Rick also handles criminal law cases such as DUI and domestic abuse.

Do you have a civil matter you would like to speak to an experience Oklahoma civil law attorney about? Please call our offices at (405)354-6800 or simply fill out our contact form.