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").
Port Hueneme is a small beach city in Ventura County, California surrounded by the city of Oxnard and the Pacific Ocean. The name derives from the Spanish spelling of the Chumash wene me, meaning "resting-place". Area was discovered by Cabrillo in 1542 and the original city of Hueneme is the second-oldest city in Ventura County. Name was officially changed to Port Hueneme in 1939. The population was 21,845 at the 2000 census. Port Hueneme has a south-facing sand beach, known for its surfing, year-round mediterranean climate and beach park. The beach stretches eastward about a mile from the harbor and the naval base and includes a wooden fishing pier. There are also picnic tables and small bring-your-own charcoal barbecues. The beach and picnic areas are popular weekend destinations during the summer season—Memorial Day (late May) through Labor Day (early September).