What is a monetary penalty that must be prosecuted through the courts called?

A monetary penalty that must be prosecuted through the courts is referred to as a fine. Fines are typically imposed as a consequence of violating laws or regulations and are enforced through judicial proceedings. They serve as a punitive measure intended to deter unlawful behavior and promote compliance with legal standards. In contrast, other terms such as civil penalties may also refer to monetary sanctions but can arise from administrative processes rather than solely through court prosecution. Fees often represent charges for services rendered rather than penalties for wrongdoing, while taxes are imposed by governments based on income or property and are not directly punitive in nature. Thus, the specific definition of a fine aligns with the need for legal action to enforce its collection.