Civil court is a government institution that settles disputes between two or more entities, typically in the same courthouse that also tries criminal cases. Sometimes, the same action (such as assault) will be tried both in civil and criminal court.. Our courts provide a forum to resolve disputes and to test and enforce laws in a fair and rational manner. ... Court decisions are based on what the law says and what the evidence proves; there is no place in the courts for suspicion, bias or favouritism