What does civil law govern?

Civil law primarily governs private legal affairs, focusing on the rights and duties of individuals and organizations towards one another. This branch of law addresses issues such as contracts, property disputes, family law, and torts, which involve private individuals rather than the state. It emphasizes remedies and compensation rather than punishment, allowing parties to seek resolutions and enforce their rights in civil disputes.

The other options mention areas of law that are governed by different legal frameworks. Public safety and criminal justice relate to criminal law, which deals with offenses against the state and societal norms. Healthcare regulations and medical malpractice fall under administrative law and tort law, focusing on professional standards and responsibilities in the healthcare sector. Environmental protection and land use pertain to regulatory and administrative law, aimed at governing how land and resources are used in relation to the environment. While these areas are vital in their own right, they do not encompass the broader aspects of civil law, which is centered mainly on private legal matters.