What is a Crime in China?

Criminal FAQ

Wednesday, 14 July 2010 12:26

A crime is a wrong committed by a person against a state or the federal government. Because a wrong is committed against all members of the community, not just the particular victim, the victim does not make the decision to prosecute the accused person. The state or federal government, acting as the people's representative, prosecutes the crime. A crime is punishable by imprisonment, fine, restitution, or other penalty.

Actions that are crimes are also covered by the civil law of Torts. A person, who is injured by an action constituting a crime, may bring a civil lawsuit to obtain damages from the person who committed the criminal act.