Comparison
Civil Attorney vs Criminal Attorney
Quick answer
Civil attorneys handle disputes between private parties — contracts, personal injury, employment, property, and family law — where the outcome is typically money damages or an injunction. Criminal attorneys defend individuals accused by the government of crimes, where the stakes include fines, probation, and incarceration. The two practice areas have different rules, procedures, burdens of proof, and required specializations. Hiring the wrong type can mean your case is mishandled from day one.
Written by James Chae — Co-Founder, Expert Sapiens
Platform expertise: Legal services & attorney vetting · Reviewed June 2026
Key differences
When to choose Civil Attorney
- You are being sued or want to sue someone for breach of contract, personal injury, or property damage
- You are dealing with an employment dispute — wrongful termination, discrimination, or wage theft
- You need legal help with a divorce, custody dispute, or estate matter
- You are a business owner facing commercial litigation, IP infringement, or partnership disputes
- You need an injunction to stop someone from doing something harmful to you or your business
When to choose Criminal Attorney
- You have been charged with a crime or are under criminal investigation
- You have received a target letter from a federal grand jury or prosecutor
- You are facing a DUI, drug charge, assault, or any offense where jail time is possible
- You are under investigation for white-collar crime — fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion
- Law enforcement has contacted you and asked you to come in for questioning
Which Should You Choose?
The distinction matters enormously — a civil litigator handling a criminal matter, or vice versa, is a serious mismatch. If you are charged with a crime, hire a criminal defense attorney immediately, say nothing to investigators without counsel, and do not assume a civil attorney can help. If you are in a private dispute over money, property, or contracts, a civil attorney is what you need. Some attorneys practice both, but most serious practitioners specialize in one. Always confirm the attorney's specific practice area before retaining them.
Typical cost
Hourly rate
$150–$500/hr
Wide range reflects specialization — IP and corporate law command higher rates than general advisory
Per session
$200–$750
Typical for a 60–90 minute contract review, legal strategy, or compliance consultation
Project rate
$500–$5,000+
Flat-fee engagements for entity formation, contract drafting, or trademark filings