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When someone files a lawsuit for money damages after a criminal prosecution, it is classified as a civil case. This distinction arises from the fundamental differences between criminal and civil law. Criminal cases involve actions that are offenses against the state or society as a whole, where the government prosecutes the offender and punishes them through fines, imprisonment, or other penalties.

In contrast, civil cases deal with disputes between individuals or organizations, typically involving claims for damages or the enforcement of rights. The plaintiff in a civil case seeks compensation for harms or losses suffered, which is often monetary in nature. The standard of proof in civil cases is also lower than in criminal cases, relying on a "preponderance of the evidence" rather than "beyond a reasonable doubt."

The other types of cases mentioned, such as federal and administrative cases, do not adequately fit this scenario. A federal case refers to legal matters that fall under federal jurisdiction, while administrative cases typically involve regulatory issues within governmental agencies. Since the lawsuit described is focused on seeking monetary damages resulting from a prior criminal prosecution, it is accurately categorized as a civil case.