CRIMINAL LAW
Criminal Law is the type of law that effects your personal freedom. Criminal law is the part of our society that attempts to prevent or curve certain behavior that society feels should not have taken place.
Usually in Criminal Law the government is prosecuting the crime against an individual. Basically you are accused of doing something that is "against" the law.
"You are always presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt by a jury of your peers."
There are two levels of crimes. Depending upon the punishment associated with the crime, it is either a misdemeanor or felony.
Misdemeanor - Usually tried in District Court and if found guilty, punishment up to 1 year in county jail, probabtion, community service etc.
Felony - The trial takes place in Circuit Court and if found guilty, punishment over 1 year in state prison, probation, community service etc.
Remember EVERYONE is entitled to a trial and you are ALWAYS considered innocent until PROVEN guilty by a jury of your peers.