Civil Penalties

Civil penalties are legal consequences imposed by government authorities on individuals or organizations for violating laws or regulations, typically in non-criminal contexts. Unlike criminal penalties, which can involve jail time, civil penalties usually involve fines or orders to take corrective action. These penalties aim to encourage compliance with laws, deter future violations, and compensate for wrongdoing. Common examples include environmental violations, unfair business practices, or breaches of consumer protection laws. Civil penalties serve as a way to uphold legal standards and protect public interests without resorting to criminal prosecution.