Civil Claim vs. Criminal Case: What Is the Difference?
Many survivors do not realize these are two entirely separate paths. Understanding the difference can reveal an option that does not depend on the police or a prosecutor.
A criminal case
A criminal case is brought by the government to hold an offender accountable to the state. It is out of the survivor's hands — the prosecutor decides whether to charge — and it uses a high standard of proof. Its focus is punishment, not your recovery.
A civil claim
A civil claim is yours. You decide whether and how to pursue it, its focus is accountability and support for your recovery, and it uses a different, lower standard of proof. It can seek to hold not only an individual but also a company responsible.
The bottom line
Because they are separate, you do not need a police report, criminal charges, or a conviction to bring a civil claim — and a civil claim can succeed even where no criminal case was ever filed. Whether you reported it is entirely your choice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pursue a civil claim if the criminal case went nowhere?
Yes. A civil claim is separate and uses a different standard, so it can move forward even where charges were never filed or a criminal case did not result in a conviction.
This is general information about Rideshare Assault injury claims, not legal advice. Every situation is different.
The law depends on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to rideshare assault.
Not sure which applies to you?
A quick, confidential review can help you decide — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.