Things You'll Need:
- Notes on all evidence presented at trial
- Counselor
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Step 1
Continue your efforts on behalf of your family member by contacting agencies such as the ACLU when you're certain the convicted person is innocent (see Resources below).
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Step 2
Maintain a positive outlook through the assistance of your local community mental health counselors. Counselors understand how to help you work through the anxiety and anger of losing a loved one on death row.
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Step 3
Understand the importance of following the law to the letter. Become familiar with the state and federal laws governing the specific crime.
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Step 4
Follow the evidence closely and consult with an attorney on behalf of your family member if you feel his or her rights have been violated.
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Step 5
Review all the evidence as if you're the one on trial. Win or lose, take comfort in knowing you have exhausted every means of overturning the death penalty sentence.
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Step 1
Recognize that if your loved one is guilty of the crime, you are not guilty by association. Each is responsible for his or her own actions.
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Step 2
Understand that family members often must move to another area to find peace. Many in society will not separate the family from the perpetrator.
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Step 3
Accept the fact that by moving on, you're not betraying your convicted family member. Even if you have to move to another state, you are entitled to a life of peace.
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Step 4
Meet with a grief counselor so you can express and learn to cope with any feelings of anger, depression or helplessness.
