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").
Salem is a city in and the county seat of McCook County, South Dakota, United States. The population was 1,371 at the 2000 census. The current mayor is Kennth Scott, a long-time resident. Salem at one-time called "Melas". This was to prevent confusion with the now non-existent community of Salena, South Dakota.