Question 48 What term is used for the individual who files suit in a civil case? Prosecutor O Respondent Defendant O Plaintiff Question 49 What is a significant criticism of the assigned counsel system in Texas? Judges engage in cronyism by assigning cases to lawyers who have contributed to their political campaigns. O Most attorneys lack even a basic understanding of the constitutional rights of the accused. Mismanagement of counsel has created a backlog in the caseload of municipal courts. Some counties have salaried full-time public defenders.