Which of the following is NOT considered a function of private law?

The distinction between public and private law is crucial in legal studies. Private law governs the relationships between individuals and entities, focusing on issues such as contracts, torts, and employment. Criminal law, however, is classified as a form of public law because it deals with offenses against the state or society at large, and the government prosecutes such cases.

Therefore, the choice indicating criminal law is the correct answer as the one that is NOT considered a function of private law. In contrast, employment law, contract law, and tort law all fall under private law, as they deal with disputes and legal relationships between private parties without direct involvement from the state as a party to lawsuits.