In a criminal case, the state, through a prosecutor, initiates the suit, while in a civil case the victim brings the suit. Persons convicted of a crime may be incarcerated, fined, or both. Criminal defense attorneys represent clients who have been accused of committing a crime, and defend their rights at each stage of a misdemeanor or felony case -- from an arrest to an appeal after conviction. Criminal defense attorneys may be hired privately or provided by the government (called "public defenders").
Elk Creek is an unincorporated community in Glenn County, California. It is located 19 miles (31 km) northwest of Willows, at an elevation of 745 feet (227 m). Its population is around 250. It is home to the smallest public high school in California, which has a population of about 35 students in grades 7 through 12. A rancheria called Grindstone, which was formed in 1906 is located approximately 7 miles North of the town. The best known landmark nearby is a mountain named Bidwell Point. The first post office at Elk Creek opened in 1872. Additional information: The town of Elk Creek is located just North of Stony Gorge Reservoir, which is a nice place for camping, fishing, and boating. Elk Creek, the town's namesake, runs out of the coast range mountains to the east into Stony Creek. Stony Creek runs from the dam at Stony Gorge into another lake a bit further up the map called Black Butte Lake, also an excellent place to fish, boat, camp, hike, and partake in various other outdoor activities. Hunting is restricted to shotguns and bows.