One of the worst calls you could possibly receive is from a loved one that’s in trouble and desperately needs your help. For some people, this may be a regular occurrence, however, for others, it could be a shock to the system. As friends and family, we agree to look out for our loved ones no matter what. So, if you are looking to help a family member in some legal trouble, but are unsure what to do, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll share some tips to ensure you can give your loved one the help they require. Here are six of the most important ones:
Listen and Don’t Judge
This is a difficult situation for all parties involved, so it’s best to refrain from judgement and stick to finding a solution. Sure, you may feel angry or even disappointed, however, this won’t resolve anything. Try to remain calm and listen to what your loved one has to say before making judgements.
Help Them Find a Great Lawyer
The best way you can help a family member in legal trouble is by finding a fantastic criminal lawyer. For example, having an experienced lawyer by their side can turn a potentially life-changing sentence into a successful outcome.
Support Their Decisions
During your loved one’s legal battle, they may be advised to make some decisions that you don’t necessarily agree with. Nevertheless, it’s important that your loved one feels supported during this difficult time, so remain neutral and reassure them.
Keep the Information to Yourself
It may be tempting to share the information you learn with those around you; however, it could hinder the case. Only speak to those you can truly trust. If you do have to unload, consider speaking to a professional.
Don’t Try to Become an Expert
When trying to help a family member in legal trouble, it’s always best to leave the legal stuff to the professionals. Understandably, you will want to educate yourself on the matter. However, you should refrain from trying to give a legal opinion. Each state deals with cases differently, so keep the legal advice to yourself.
Post Bail
Jail can be an extremely terrifying place for your loved one. Therefore, it’s important you try to get them out as quickly as possible. If you don’t have enough money to meet bail, you should contact a bonds service to see if they can help. They can also help with all the paperwork involved.
At the end of the day everyone is prone to making mistakes. Whether your loved one was in the wrong place at the wrong time, or had a moment of bad judgement, it’s important you try to help them as best as you can.
Remember that this can also be a tough time for you. So, if you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it’s important to give yourself some time to recuperate. Hopefully, this guide has given you some insight as to what the right steps are when it comes to helping a family member in legal trouble.
Photo Credit: Fireworks by EastWest
If your loved one is frequently in these self inflicted situations you might want to reconsider the “post bail” business or if they are undependable and might skip town leaving you holding the (empty) bag! You know your relatives best!
Good point, Karen!
If he were still alive, you’d want Racehorse Haynes as your attorney. He could get you off even if you were caught on camera committing the crime.
Is he like Perry Mason?
Dewey, Cheatem & Howe
Yep … those guys are only slightly more famous than those famous divorce attorneys: Ditcher, Quick & Hyde. 😉