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").
Pearl City is a village in Stephenson County, Illinois, United States. The population was 780 at the 2000 census. The Pearl City "Wolves" and EPC "Wildcats" are the local school sports teams. Pearl City is home to three churches, Zion Community, St. John's Lutheran, and Pearl City Methodist. There are two local 4-H clubs, The Pearl City Hornets, and the Pearl Valley Rangers. Civic organizations include The American Legion and Lions Club. The town also holds an annual "Homecoming" celebration, parade, fireworks, and dinner.