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").
Laurel is a city in Yellowstone County, Montana, United States. It is part of the Billings, Montana Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 6,255 at the 2000 census. Both Interstate 90 and a number of local railroads run through Laurel. It is most known for its industry and agriculture, but also has a historic shopping district. Laurel is home to a Cenex oil refinery & Montana Rail Link's Laurel Yard, the largest rail yard between St. Paul, Minnesota & Pasco, Washington.