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").
Pipe Creek is an unincorporated community in Bandera County, Texas, United States. It had a population of approximately 66 in 1990. It is part of the San Antonio Metropolitan Statistical Area. The Bandera Independent School District serves area students.