Civil law is a major branch of law. it is often suggested that civil proceedings are taken for the purpose of obtaining compensation for injury, and may thus be distinguished from criminal proceedings, whose purpose is to inflict punishment. However, exemplary damages or punitive damages may be awarded in civil proceedings. It was also formerly possible for common informers to sue for a penalty in civil proceedings. Matters relating to partition, possession, eviction, the title of the property and execution of the will, and other civil matters are dealt with.