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").
Williamsburg is a village in Sierra County, New Mexico, United States. The population was 527 at the 2000 census. The village, though small, is located conveniently adjacent to Truth or Consequences, and has essentially become a suburb. Though the town is experiencing moderate growth now, especially along I-25, in the near future there is a high possibility of its becoming a booming bedroom community for lakesiders from Elephant Butte.