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.
Ararat is an unincorporated community in the Long Hill Township of Surry County, North Carolina. Ararat is situated on, and is named for, the Ararat River. Ararat is along the former Atlantic & Yadkin Railway line from Mount Airy to Rural Hall that is now operated by the Yadkin Valley Railroad. Landmarks near the center of the community include the community post office, fire department and area churches.