If individuals smoke in a restaurant where smoking is prohibited, which type of law are they violating?

Smoking in a restaurant where it is prohibited is a violation of public law. Public law governs the relationships between individuals and the state, and encompasses regulations designed to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. In many jurisdictions, laws that prohibit smoking in public spaces such as restaurants are enacted to safeguard the community from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and to promote a healthier environment for all patrons.

Public health regulations are part of this body of law and include rules about smoking in designated areas and the enforcement of these regulations within public establishments. By violating these regulations, individuals not only disregard the rules laid down by the governing authorities but also potentially pose health risks to others in the vicinity.

In contrast, criminal law pertains to behaviors that are offenses against the state or public, typically involving prosecutions. Civil law generally deals with disputes between private parties and does not directly engage with public regulations such as smoking bans. Family law focuses on family-related matters and does not encompass smoking regulations in public venues.