Translation guide
A lawsuit between private parties, typically seeking money or specific performance rather than criminal penalties.
The most common way to refer to a civil suit in Japanese legal contexts.
Standard term for a civil lawsuit. Used in formal and legal contexts.
When the civil nature is clear from context, a more general term for lawsuit can be used.
General word for lawsuit. Often used when the type (civil vs. criminal) is already understood.
When the nature of the civil suit is more specific, such as for damages or an injunction.
民事訴訟 (civil suit) is between private parties, while 刑事訴訟 (criminal case) is brought by the state. The distinction is important because the procedures and outcomes differ.
彼は隣人に対して民事訴訟を起こした。
He filed a civil suit against his neighbor.
A slightly more descriptive way to say 'civil suit', often used in explanations.
これは民事の訴訟であって、刑事事件ではない。
This is a civil suit, not a criminal case.
その訴訟は長引いている。
The lawsuit has been dragging on.
Refers to a trial or court case. Can be used for civil suits in everyday conversation.
彼は損害賠償の裁判を起こした。
He filed a lawsuit for damages.
A civil suit for monetary damages. Very common type of civil litigation.
彼女は会社に対して損害賠償訴訟を起こした。
She filed a civil suit for damages against the company.
A civil suit seeking an injunction to stop someone from doing something.
住民が工場に対して差止訴訟を起こした。
The residents filed a civil suit for an injunction against the factory.