What type of law involves the enforcement or protection of private rights?

Civil law is the branch of law that specifically addresses the enforcement or protection of private rights. This area of law deals with disputes between individuals or organizations rather than offenses against the state. It encompasses a wide range of legal issues including contracts, property disputes, family law, and torts, wherein one party seeks compensation or restitution from another party for perceived wrongs.

In civil law, the focus is on resolving conflicts and providing remedies to individuals who claim their rights have been violated, rather than on punishing an offender, which is a hallmark of criminal law. By focusing on private rights, civil law facilitates personal accountability and ensures that individuals can seek justice and maintain their legal rights within society.