Video · Criminal and civil

Criminal law and civil law: what is the difference?

24:45 · In Vietnamese · Livestream in 2020

Watch on YouTube (opens YouTube in a new tab)

Vy explains how criminal and civil law differ, and why admitting guilt or paying a fine can be recorded and affect you later.

What it covers

  • Criminal: the government prosecutes; jail or probation is possible
  • Civil: a dispute between people, mostly about money
  • Why a victim cannot simply withdraw a criminal case
  • A fine paid is still on the record; signing means accepting responsibility

Read next

This video gives general information as of when it was recorded and may not reflect recent changes in the law. It is not legal advice for your situation.

← Back to all videos

Your first step

Tell Vy what happened.

Call, in English or Tiếng Việt

(617) 265-1767Or write to him with the formOr write to him with the form
  • Book an appointment (no walk-ins)By appointment only
  • You talk with Vy himselfYou talk with Vy himself
  • What you tell him is confidentialWhat you tell him is confidential

Bring what you have. Letters, notices, court papers, a photo ID. If you are not sure something matters, bring it. Coming without papers is fine too.

Bring what you have.

Letters, notices, court papers, a photo ID. If you are not sure something matters, bring it. Coming without papers is fine too.

985 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA 02125lawyertruong@lawyertruong.com

Book an appointment first

Best way to reach you

If a call is not safe for you, choose email. The office will reply only by email.

English or Vietnamese is fine.

We reply within one business day. By appointment only. The consultation fee is credited toward legal fees if you hire the firm.

Your message goes to the law office by email. Please keep it short, and leave out sensitive details until you meet.

(617) 265-1767Book an appointmentBook