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").
Imperial is a census-designated place (CDP) in Jefferson County, Missouri, United States. The estimated population in 2007 was 4,747. It was 4,373 at the 2000 census. It was originally known as West Kimmswick, and is roughly 25 driving minutes south of St. Louis. St. John's Church is a historic parish church located within Imperial.