Criminal matters involve issues between the government and people where the government has accused someone of breaking a law.
These matters range from a speeding ticket to very serious crimes such as murder.
Whatever the charge, the state is accusing someone of breaking a law, and the state wants that person punished for breaking that law. Punishment can include significant fines, jail time or loss of a privilege (such as a driver’s license or the right to possess a firearm).
In addition to punishment required by the state, punishment may also be imposed by others. Examples include increased insurance premiums, the criminal matter being used as evidence against you in a separate lawsuit, or it being used as evidence that you are simply no longer trustworthy.