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").
Worcester is a city in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. Named after Worcester, England, the city had a population of 182,596, making it the estimated second largest city in New England. It is the county seat of Worcester County. Worcester is located approximately 40 miles west of Boston, and marks the western periphery of the Boston-Worcester-Manchester (MA-RI-NH) U.S. Census Combined Statistical Area (CSA). Due to its location in Central Massachusetts, Worcester is often referred to as the "Heart of the Commonwealth. " The city is also noted for its mill era Victorian architecture.