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").
Paso Robles is a city in San Luis Obispo County, California, United States. Paso Robles is the fastest growing city in San Luis Obispo County: Its population at the 2000 census was 24,297; by 2007 this number had risen to 29,297, with a greater area population of 41,249. It is estimated that by 2010 the population will be approximately 32,400, and that it will reach 44,000 by 2025. Located on the Salinas River north of San Luis Obispo, California, the city is known for its hot springs, its abundance of wineries, and for playing host to the California Mid-State Fair.