What type of law involves breaking a law set up by the government?

Criminal law pertains to acts that are considered offenses against the state or public and involves violations of laws established by the government. When a person commits an act that contravenes these laws, they are deemed to have broken the law, leading to prosecution by the state. This encompasses a wide range of actions, from misdemeanors to felonies, and involves penalties such as fines, imprisonment, or community service.

In contrast, civil law typically addresses disputes between individuals or organizations and does not involve the government punishing an individual for a crime; instead, it may seek compensation or specific performance. Administrative law relates to regulations created by government agencies, which oversee the actions of businesses and individuals but does not directly involve criminal acts. International law governs relations between nations but is not focused on domestic law violations. Thus, criminal law is the correct classification for violations of laws established by the government.