The Sentence You Never Thought Would Happen: What To Do Next
Being charged with a horrible crime and arrested is terrifying enough. Spending weeks in jail with people who really did the crimes of which they are convicted is even more terrifying. So, when you stand before a judge and hear a verdict of "guilty" and then have to hear that you are receiving a life sentence in jail, you are completely and emotionally overwhelmed. Whatever you do, do not give up (especially if you know you are innocent). There are things you can still do in jail and from jail to work toward your freedom. Be sure to keep a lawyer on retainer for life sentence consulting. He or she will give you the best advice you can follow, and it will look something like this.
Keep Your Head Down and Your Nose Out of Trouble
This is often easier said than done. Inmates like to "initiate" new inmates in a variety of ways, which could cost you extra punishments and extra days in jail you do not want. Keeping your head down and staying out of trouble as much as you are able to helps to put a positive spin on your case. It shows that you are a model prisoner worthy of parole, and your life sentence may be shortened so long as the judge did not say "without parole" at your sentencing.
Appeal, Appeal, Appeal
If new evidence can be found or old evidence that was not admissible in your first trial is now admissible, appeal, appeal, appeal. As long as there is something new that can be used, something old that can shed light on your case, or something akin to botched police work or frame-ups, you can appeal. Both you and your lawyer can spend hours working on this, regardless of where you are right now.
Occupy Your Free Time Wisely
Smart people who are jailed look for ways to occupy their free time wisely. One of the best things you can do is pursue a degree (or another degree) while behind bars. It shows that you are attempting to improve your status, and that will look favorable on your prison record. Also, read lots of law books. Read every law book you can get your hands on, and make copies of statutes that might help your case. You might even be able to help others with their cases while in jail. Read whatever you can get your hands on, and ask friends and family to send books. It helps.
For more information, contact a company like Board Insight Consulting.