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").
Downsville, New York is a hamlet and former village within the town of Colchester in Delaware County, New York. It is the site of the Downsville Bridge, a covered bridge and the historic Union Free School. Downsville is located on the East Branch of the Delaware River. A dam on this portion of the river, at Downsville, was completed by New York City in 1954, creating the Pepacton Reservoir, which is part of the New York City water supply system. Downsville Central School, located on Maple Avenue, serves families from the surrounding areas, including municipalities as far away as East Branch. Downsville Central School's colors are purple and white and their mascot is the Eagle.