What is criminal law?
Criminal law is a branch of law that defines behaviors that are contrary to the law and provides for their punishment. Any behavior that is contrary to criminal law constitutes an offense, punishable by a penalty (fine, detention, prohibitions, etc.)
What are the different types of criminal offenses?
Criminal offences are classified into three categories according to their seriousness:
- Traffic violations (road traffic violations, so-called minor violence, etc.)
- Offenses (theft, violence, possession of weapons, drug trafficking, etc.)
- Crimes (homicide, rape, violence resulting in death, etc.).
If you are the subject of legal proceedings in which you are suspected or accused of having committed a contravention, an offence or a crime, you are subject to criminal proceedings. Maître SAXÉMARD is competent to assist you and defend your interests throughout the procedure.
If you believe that you have been the victim of a contravention, an offence or a crime, you have the possibility of initiating criminal proceedings against the perpetrator by filing a complaint. Maître SAXÉMARD is competent to assist you and defend your interests throughout the procedure.
What is the difference between civil law and criminal law?
Civil law aims to regulate disputes between individuals. Civil law includes several branches of law such as family law (marriage, divorce, parental authority), property law, inheritance law, contract law (sale, lease, provision of services). The civil judge resolves and arbitrates disputes between individuals. The SAXÉMARD firm does not practice civil law.
Criminal law, on the other hand, punishes behavior that is contrary to the law. During the criminal hearing, the Public Prosecutor (Prosecutor of the Republic or Attorney General) requests a sentence against the person accused of committing the offense. In this context, the criminal judge is responsible for deciding on the guilt of the person accused of committing the offense and, if necessary, pronouncing a sentence against them.
Criminal hearings are held in the Police Court, the Criminal Court or the Assize Court, while civil hearings are held in the civil divisions of the courts. The SAXÉMARD firm assists you before all criminal courts.
