The possibility of a loved one's incarceration is startling and difficult news to receive. Unfortunately, it's not only suspects who feel the effects of impending prison terms—it's also their loved ones. You can find peace of mind by hiring a criminal defense attorney, but there are other ways to deal with the news as well.

3 Tips if Your Loved One Is Going to Prison

1. Educate Yourself

If you've never dealt with stress or worry due to a loved one's incarceration, the unknown nature of the situation is likely to blame for most of your anxiety. Luckily, with a bit of research and education, you can mitigate most of these concerns. First, find out where they will be staying; this information should become available to you and your loved one's criminal defense attorney shortly after their sentencing. Then, look up the facility's policies. This should include specifics about things like visiting hours, what kinds of packages they can receive, phone privileges, and the commissary program. 

2. Rely on Others

Knowing that you have someone else to rely on while you make your way through this challenging time can be a huge comfort, so trust your friends and family to help you out now. Don't be shy about asking for help from those you know, whether it's for emotional support or something more practical like child care or meal preparation. You can also join online communities that provide support for the loved ones of prisoners.

3. Remember That They Won't Be Completely Out of Your Life

Although it's normal to feel helpless after hearing a loved one's sentence, keep in mind that there's still a lot you can do. You can still write to each other and talk on the phone, and you may even be able to arrange regular visits. It is possible to overcome a sense of helplessness and come up with effective plans for making the best of what lies ahead if you shift your attention from what you cannot accomplish to what you can.

If you have a loved one awaiting trial and want to make sure their interests are best represented in a court of law, turn to David S. Washington Jr. in Hamilton, OH. For over 20 years, this knowledgeable criminal defense attorney has helped his clients obtain the best outcomes possible when facing criminal charges. Visit his website or call (513) 751-1400 to learn more.