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").
Birchrunville is an unincorporated community, little more than a woodland crossroads in West Vincent Township in northern Chester County, Pennsylvania. It is about 40 miles west of Philadelphia, near the Downingtown exit on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The community is served by 19421 zip code. Birchrunville is notable perhaps for an antiques store and, in the former general store, the 45-seat Birchrunville Store Cafe. Remains of a mill still stand in Birchrunville on Powder Mill Hill. However, it is best known for its annual 4th of July parade. It was begun by local resident Ben James. He organized the event and gathered "a dozen elementary-school-age boys living within half a mile of the post office. " It was cancelled in 2007 for the first time due to public drunkenness and other problems. It is in the Eastern Standard time zone. Elevation is 387 feet.