For most, going through any type of legal battle is considered one of the most stressful experiences one can go through so it comes as no surprise that many face a lot of stress-induced health problems including issues with their mental health. If left unchecked, this type of pressure can cause a lot of damage so it is important to take care of oneself so that you come out of this time better and stronger than ever! Here are a few suggestions to keep everything as calm as possible.
Stay in the present moment
Hearings and trials no matter the severity of the charges take a long time to conclude. Even after being released on bond, it can take several weeks to months before you even attend the first hearing in regard to charges. Because it takes so long for the process to get moving, it can feel overwhelming to just sit and wait for the whole thing to be done. For this reason, it is vital to try and stay in the present moment and take one day at a time. Since there is so much downtime between hearings it will be far easier to deal with things if you can find a way to not think about the hearings on days when nothing is happening and that of course is easier said than done but there comes a time when you have done everything within your own power to facilitate the process and it just becomes a waiting game. If during this time you can focus on just doing normal things like going to work and being involved with friends and family, this will do more for your case than anything else.
Stay compliant with all bond conditions
After getting released on bond, any defendant will be tasked with following any and all bond conditions that came with the acceptance of release. Bond conditions are specific rules that the judge hands down and can be anything from mandatory drug testing to looking for employment. These conditions must be followed or the defendant risks having a bench warrant assigned. By complying with the bond conditions you will not only be ensuring that no other trouble occurs but it also tends to be a good path on what the judge wants you to accomplish while out on bond anyways. Since it’s so important to show that the time out on bond was used wisely, simply complying with things like abstaining from drugs and alcohol, attending check-in meetings and looking for employment work to show responsible choices even if they were court-ordered.
This too shall pass
It can be really hard to see the light when you are in the midst of the fog but it’s important to remember that for the vast majority of people, an arrest and the following case are just temporary and the stress will eventually subside. While it may take some time for the whole process to unfold, in the end, no matter the outcome, you will be able to move on with life and the entire experience will just be a memory. In the meantime, you just need to make sure to practice kindness with yourself and use the time in between hearings well.
