Far too many people are the victims of crime in Massachusetts. The crimes of assault, battery, rape, just to name a few, occur far too often. Here is an example: someone pouches you in the face. Following this crime, you may need to seek medical treatment which means you will have to pay for said treatment, and, you may also miss time from work. In order to be compensated for these and other losses, you may need to sue your assailant(s) in civil court.
Some common civil causes of action which can spring from criminal conduct are negligent security, negligent hiring and supervision, and negligent/intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Therefore, be aware that criminal acts in Massachusetts can also lead to civil liability on the part of the assailant(s).