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").
Matlock is an unincorporated community in Mason County, Washington, United States. Matlock is the primary population center for the western part of Mason County, a sporadically populated logging area. The most notable sites are the church, food bank, general store, post office, local grange hall, and the Mary M. Knight school, grades kindergarten through senior high school; the school mascot is the Knight Owl, a rarely commented on pun. Matlock features nearby lakes and recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. The nearest lake is the sparkling Lake Nahwatzel. Every year in first full weekend in May, Matlock hosts the Old Timer's Festival at Mary M. Knight School campus. Here you can find food, crafts, tractors, and fun for the whole family. Matlock is located northwest of Olympia, Washington, about a 20 minute drive from the county seat, Shelton. Related link: Matlock page of official Mason County Tourism website