Civil law, as opposed to criminal law, is the branch of law dealing with disputes between individuals and/or organizations, in which compensation may be awarded to the victim. For instance, if a car crash victim claims damages against the driver for loss or injury sustained in an accident, this will be a civil law case. Civil law courts provide a forum for deciding disputes involving torts (such as accidents, negligence, and libel), contract disputes, the probate of wills, trusts, property disputes, administrative law, commercial law, and any other private matters that involve private parties or organizations including government departments. The objectives of civil law are different from other types of law. In civil law there is the attempt to right a wrong, honor an agreement, or settle a dispute. If there is a victim, they get compensation, and the person who is the cause of the wrong pays, this being a civilized form of, or legal alternative to, revenge.
Algonquin is a village located in both Kane and McHenry County, Illinois. A 2007 special census placed the Village's population at 30,548, growing considerably from the 2000 Census figure of 23,276. The village is known as "The Gem of the Fox River Valley", since its downtown is nestled in the heart of Illinois' Fox River Valley. Established in 1890 and long known as a small river community, the village is currently making the transition into a major regional hub, as it has experienced considerable suburban growth over the past 15 years. Now stretching all the way west to the busy Randall Road corridor, Algonquin has become a major center of retail activity and a growing business center. Additionally, the village continues to see considerable residential growth. In wake of the growth, the village has had to deal with challenges such as traffic congestion and overburdened schools. In spite of this, the Village has managed to grow its commercial tax base, preserve its character and history, and substantially increase its recreational offerings.