1. Criminal vs. Civil Cases

Criminal cases involve an action that is considered to be harmful to society as a whole
(hence, these are considered offenses against the "state" or the jurisdiction of the prosecution). 
Common criminal cases include citations from law enforcement.

See Gallatin County Justice Court Criminal Process Information

Civil cases usually involve private disputes between persons or organizations. 
Common civil cases include Property Disputes or Contract Disputes.

See Gallatin County Justice Court Civil Forms and Process

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