Why is refusal to pay bills or rent considered a civil matter, while refusal to pay a restautant bill considered criminal? What's the difference?

The difference lies mainly in the nature of the obligations and typically how immediate the effects are. Rent and most bills are based on a contractual agreement that sets the terms for payment. Therefore, failure to meet these obligations is usually considered a matter of civil law because it involves breach of contract, where the aggrieved party can seek damages.

On the other hand, refusing to pay for a meal at a restaurant after consuming it could be considered theft of services or fraud because there isn't a deferred payment agreement. This can fall under criminal law since it's an immediate and deliberate act to obtain something without paying. This distinction is important because criminal offenses typically carry harsher penalties and have more severe consequences for future aspects, such as employment.

However, laws differ widely and could potentially treat these scenarios differently based on specific circumstances and jurisdictions. It's always recommended to consult a law professional for advice regarding specific situations.