FAQs

What are crimes vs. civil matters?

Criminal Cases

Criminal Cases involve being accused of breaking the law, which could be Local, State or Federal. These laws codify what is considered by society to be wrong behavior, and usually, if someone is found guilty, punishments and/or fines are imposed. 

It has been said that the United States is a Nation of Laws.  There are laws about nearly everything.

Some laws are about the relation of citizens to the government, such as tax laws, financial laws, military laws, and immigration laws, but generally speaking, most laws are meant to preserve citizens' rights, and protect them from physical danger or from being taken advantage of.   

Civil Cases 

Civil Cases are disputes between individuals and sometimes between individuals and companies, organizations, towns, or other entities, or between those entities. The disputes ofter center on the responsibilities and duties the parties owe each other, or who is the proper owner of property. Agreements and Contracts are often involved, such as Wills, or Bills of Sale or Debts. Cases can also be about one person harming another, such as in a car accident.  But unless the harm was intentional or caused by an illegal activity it is not a criminal matter. 

Mixed Criminal and Civil Cases

Sometimes a legal situations involves both types of Law.  For instance, if someone buys a vehicle that does not work properly, there will probably be a dispute between the buyer and the car dealer, but the Government has passed laws ("Lemon Laws") to protect consumers in this situation, so in this case there are laws on the side of the person trying to get a fair resolution. 

This is why consulting with an Attorney is advisable is most legal situations. Even if it turns out that the situation is something you can handle yourself, you will have a clearer picture of all the pieces of the puzzle, and will know what to watch out for.  

Some attorneys handle both types of cases

These types of "Mixed Legal Situations" are not uncommon.  This is why consulting with an Attorney is advisable is most legal situations. Even if it turns out that the situation is something you can handle yourself, you will have a clearer picture of all the pieces of the puzzle, you will know what your legal responsibilities are, and what to watch out for.  

Often, having an attorney on your side is safer

In many situations however, you will need an attorney. Often you will  be dealing with insurance companies and other big corporations that have deep pockets and sometimes their own in-house teams of lawyers.  They hate to lose and don't mind a fight.  You won't stand a chance on your own. It will turn out better for you to have a knowledgable and experienced attorney on your side.   An attorney with Expertise in both civil and criminal case law, like Attorney Rusconi, will be your best bet. He will know how best to handle all the sides and issues of the case, making sure that all options are pursued and all requirements are met, and that you receive the benefits of any special protections under the law.   

The Law Office of Michael S. Rusconi handles both Civil and Criminal Cases.  Attorney Michael Rusconi will be happy to discuss your case with you.