When researching lawyers and responding to legal complaints, be sure the person you hire is legitimate, has their degree, is a member of your State Bar, and someone who specializes in the legal issue you need help with. Also, if served, make sure the statement is real and not a scam. Don’t give anyone you don’t know and trust your Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers. Be wary of any demand involving mailing or wire transferring money. Don’t give in to pressure to take immediate action, even in legal situations. Take time to review and check that a situation, request or legal need is honest and form a trusted, verified source.

Don’t judge what a person is going through, listen, support their choices, and maybe provide testimony or help with what they need. Even if you don’t agree with what they want to do, or have done, still support them. They’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re there as support.

Struggling with legal issues is challenging on all levels. It can cause many mental health problems, from feeling irritable, sad, anxious, to more serious issues like depression, thoughts of suicide and addiction issues. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve your mental health despite the ongoing uncertainty of the situation. Stay physically active, sleep, eat well, and drink plenty of water. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, spiritual adviser, or mentor. If you’re experiencing a decline in mental health that has you concerned, or your strategies aren’t working to improve your mood, then seek support. There are support lines that can listen and/or provide resources to counseling, support groups, education, and the development of coping skills.

Just let them know that you’re here for them and will help with anything they need. It’s good to be that support, especially if they don’t have one or are currently in a legal battle with someone who used to be their support.

A legal issue will take time to matriculate through the legal system. Court dates, legal meetings, hearings, etc., will not happen instantly. It can be difficult, scary, overwhelming, and cause tremendous worry. Try to be patient and trust the process; things will eventually come to a resolution, just not overnight.

• Be on Your Best Behavior. A person going through legal issues should remain on their best behavior. It’s not a good idea to use substances or engage in any behavior which could cast you in poor light or bring more trouble. Instead, seek out good influences and work to stay mentally well.
• Don’t Compare. It’s tempting to compare a person’s case with something or someone similar. The fact is that every single case is unique, and the comparisons probably don’t apply.
• Listen More Than Talk. Someone fighting a legal case may have a lot on the line. This means they’re experiencing a lot of stress. So, be an ear for them to talk or suggest they seek professional, spiritual, or legal help.
• Don’t Give Them Legal Advice. Everyone thinks they are a lawyer. The fact is that your loved one probably already has a lawyer to go over the facts of the case.