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").
High Ridge is a census-designated place (CDP) in Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. The population was 4,598 in the 2007 estimated census. It was 4,236 at the 2000 census. At 927 feet (283 m) above sea level, High Ridge is the second highest point in Missouri. It is also home to Olympic triathlete Sarah Haskins, who competed in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.