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").
Clinton is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) in Prince George's County, Maryland, United States. Clinton was formerly known as Surrattsville until the time of the American Civil War. The population of Clinton was 26,064 at the 2000 census. However, as of 2007, there is an estimate of 35,096. The postal code for Clinton is 20735. Clinton is historically known for its role in the American Civil War concerning the Abraham Lincoln assassination. Clinton is adjacent to Camp Springs, Rosaryville, also known as Melwood, and Andrews Air Force Base. Brandywine is less than 15 miles southeast of Clinton.