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.
Atlantic is an unincorporated community in eastern Carteret County situated along the Core Sound, located in what was known to early settlers of the area as Hunting Quarters. It is the location of US 70's eastern terminus and the ferry terminal for journeys to the Cape Lookout National Seashore. The Atlantic Navy Airfield (now closed) is located in Atlantic; it is now used as a satellite airfield for nearby military bases. Neighboring communities include Sea Level and Cedar Island; the nearest municipality is Beaufort, North Carolina. Atlantic is also home to Luther L. Smith and Sons Seafood. Commercial fishing has long been the primary means of earning a living in this community. Atlantic had the first Public Highschool in Carteret County. It was an incorporated community from 1905 until 1920. It had three different mayors during this time.