When a loved one is arrested, it can be a shocking and stressful experience for everyone involved. The legal process, the associated social stigma, and the emotional toll can affect both the arrested individual and those close to them.
However, this is a time when your loved one may need support the most. By understanding the steps you can take to help them, you can make a difficult period a little more manageable for everyone involved. Here are some key ways to offer support following an arrest.
Stay Calm and Gather Information
In the initial stages, it’s essential to stay calm. Find out as much as possible about the arrest, including:
- Where they are being held. Contact local jails or detention centers to locate them.
- The charges they face. This information can usually be found by contacting the arresting agency or reviewing the booking report.
- Their rights. Make sure they understand their right to remain silent and to request a lawyer. Remind them that anything they say can be used against them.
Seek Legal Advice
One of the most crucial things you can do is help them find an attorney, particularly if they cannot afford one. You might:
- Contact a criminal defense attorney. Look for someone with experience in cases similar to theirs.
- Encourage them to work with a public defender. If they cannot afford a private attorney, they may be eligible for a public defender who can provide them with legal representation.
- Ask about the legal process. A lawyer can explain how bail works, what court dates are upcoming, and what to expect at each stage of the process.
Help Arrange Bail, If Possible
If bail is an option, you may be able to help your loved one by:
- Contacting a bail bondsman. Many states allow people to secure release by paying a portion of the bail amount through a bondsman.
- Pooling resources. If the bail is unaffordable, consider if family or friends might be able to contribute to securing their release.
- Considering alternatives. Some states offer alternative ways to secure release, such as personal recognizance bonds, which don’t require payment.
Offer Nonjudgmental Emotional Support
The emotional aspect of an arrest can be as challenging as the legal one. While it’s natural to feel a range of emotions, keep in mind that your loved one may be going through feelings of shame, fear, or confusion. To support them emotionally:
- Listen without judgment. Encourage open, honest conversations, and let them share their feelings without fear of reproach.
- Express your support. Reassure them that you care for them, even if you do not condone their actions. Remind them that everyone makes mistakes, and they can work through this.
- Stay positive. Being optimistic about the future can provide them with a sense of hope and stability. Avoid making assumptions or jumping to conclusions based on the circumstances of their arrest.
Assist With Practical Matters
Being in jail or navigating the court system can prevent your loved one from handling their everyday responsibilities. Helping them manage practical matters can be invaluable. Consider:
- Handling their bills. Ensuring their mortgage or rent, utilities, or other essential payments are made on time.
- Communicating with their employer. If appropriate, you can communicate with their workplace about their situation, particularly if they need time off.
- Arranging transportation. They may need help getting to court or meetings with their lawyer.
Understand the Legal Process and Timelines
The criminal justice system can be complex, and understanding the timeline and processes can help you and your loved one navigate it more effectively. This includes:
- Familiarizing yourself with court appearances and deadlines. Missing a court date can worsen the situation, so help them keep track of essential dates.
- Understanding possible outcomes. Know the range of possible outcomes for the charges they face. This may help you prepare for the best and worst-case scenarios.
- Encouraging compliance with legal obligations. This includes attending all court appearances, following any conditions set by the court, and cooperating fully with their lawyer.
Encourage Positive Steps Forward
An arrest can sometimes serve as a wake-up call, especially if it’s related to substance use, mental health issues, or poor decision-making. Encourage your loved one to consider:
- Counseling or therapy. Many people benefit from therapy, especially if underlying issues contributed to their arrest.
- Rehabilitation or treatment programs. If substance use was a factor, attending a treatment program might be a crucial step in their recovery.
- Personal growth. Taking courses, setting career goals, or working on self-improvement can help them move forward positively.
Take Care of Yourself
Supporting a loved one through an arrest can be emotionally and financially draining, so remember to look after your well-being too. This may include:
- Setting boundaries. Offer support but know your limits in terms of time, money, and emotional involvement.
- Seeking your own support network. Confiding in trusted friends or even a counselor can help you process your own emotions.
- Practicing self-care. Continue engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, helping you manage stress.
The Bottom Line
Supporting a loved one following an arrest can be challenging, but it’s also a time when your support can make a meaningful impact. By providing calm, nonjudgmental assistance, focusing on practical matters, and encouraging positive steps forward, you can help them navigate this difficult period. Remember that mistakes and setbacks are part of life, and with your support, they may find the strength to emerge from this experience with resilience and growth.
About Affordabail
Affordabail is a local bonding company. With several locations throughout the state of Louisiana, we service St. Tammany Parish Jail in Covington, Livingston Parish Jail in Livingston, Jefferson Parish Jail in Gretna, Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, St. John Parish Jail in Laplace, and many more.
For more than 20 years in the industry, Affordabail Bail Bonds has been providing both families and individuals with expedient and efficient bail service. We are reliable at any time, day or night. We are always here for our clients and we treat people who require bail as people, not criminals. There is no way of knowing the circumstances behind what has happened to an accused, and we firmly believe in “innocent until proven guilty.” This respectful approach to our clients is part of what makes Affordabail better than the competition.
We process all bond payments securely, and our friendly staff is efficient and hardworking, getting all the required paperwork done as quickly as possible. We do not want loved ones to stay in custody longer than necessary. Our bail bondsman will make the entire process of obtaining bail simple and painless. Let industry knowledge work for you.
We offer payment plans, too. For more details on the types of bail bonds we offer, and to get started, call any of our locations, or fill out an online form.
