Arrests are hard on everyone. From the officer to the arrested person, to their entire network of family and friends. There is no one in someone’s close circle that is not affected by the arrest. It can be difficult to come to terms with the possibility of a loved one having allegedly committed a crime, but it is important to refrain from labels and remember that they are still the same person. While you may find it difficult to work through your own thoughts about someone who has recently been released on bail or bond, this is a great time to have important discussions and try to support them wherever possible in hopes that they will walk free and return to a life on the right side of the law.
Freedom and Fortitude
Being released on bail is not exactly true freedom (as it reduces one’s ability to travel and sometimes find work) but it is far freer than jail, and it allows for valuable reflection time with loved ones. Creating a safe environment for your loved one who is on bail is important in helping them prepare for their upcoming trial and reduce the risk of them fleeing or experiencing too much stress at the prospect of facing a judge and a jury. While a person is home, it is a great idea to take a moment to tell them that you care about them and wish to help them.
Helping someone that is out on bail does not always require monetary assistance, and quite often it just takes someone to listen to the events that led up to this point and offer care and advice on avoiding situations such as this in the future. Something that can also help your loved one is by giving them a job or volunteering opportunity as this can strengthen the case that they are getting their act together and trying to rebuild and become part of the larger community. Showing your loved one that they are cared for, loved, and wanted in the community is crucial in giving them the best chance possible at their court date.
The Best Help
Your help is the best that your loved one can receive while they are out on bail. They will have plenty of unfilled time in between lawyer visits and consultations, and this will be best filled with times of healing and learning. Sometimes your help may not be entirely direct, as it may be good for your loved one to go to meetings to help people in similar situations as them or visit rehabilitation clinics. Depending on their specific issues, there are many different avenues of helping. However, being there for them in this time of need is the best you can do. As always, be sure to take care of yourself and help where you can without feeling obliged to cede to every request as you have your own things to take care of and your loved one needs to respect that.
Thank you for being an ally to your loved one who is on bail. This is a stressful situation for everyone involved, and it is okay to feel the emotions that you are feeling. It is so important that you show your loved one that they are still valued in your home and the community and that you are there to help them. Your care will go a long way in helping them to recover and become better than ever before.