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").
Merry Hill is a rural area that is composed of mostly farm land. Within the town there are two schools, John P. Law Elementary School (Public), and Lawrence Academy (Private). John P. Law Elementary School was shutdown in 2006 due to a diversity issue. Lawrence Academy was founded in 1968 and is located on Avoca Farm Road. This small private institution prides itself on being "uniquely different". In the middle of the town is the post office, with the zip code 27957. Avoca Incorporated is a large company, located where the original Avoca Plantation existed, that profits from botanical extraction. Salmon Creek twist and turns threw the wooded area of Merry Hill and opens up to the Albemarle Sound. This is know as the Mouth of Salmon Creek. There is currently a golf course under construction in Merry Hill that overlooks the Mouth of Salmon and reaches out into the Albemarle Sound. The course was designed by retired professional golfer Arnold Palmer. It is expected to reach completion in the near future.