I understand your position, superjen, and in general agree with you. However, when it becomes personal it becomes much more difficult. My experience, and I know I'm not alone, was that of despite the uncomfortable and difficult legal process my abuser walked away with what would amount to less than a slap on the wrist. Not a day in jail. Was able to move right back into the home with me and my sisters. Not even listed on a sex offender's list. If he so chose, he could easily get a job working in a school or other such environment full of little kids because NOTHING would come up in his background check. All this despite the fact that he eventually admitted to the acts. His attorney KNEW he was guilty and still was able to secure this outcome for him.
-
We are a multilingual website again. Read the notice about this.
-
Understand AI use at MyPTSD: all AI use is explained in our AI help page. AI use is by choice here. It exists if you want it, but does nothing unless you choose to use it.
Anxiety Re: A Lengthy Legal Process; Coping Tips From The Experienced Requested
- Post starter dharmaBum
- Start date
- Status
D
Deleted member 5760
My honest opinion of that catjudo - that attorney should be disbarred. You take an oath that if you are AWARE of the guilt of your client you should step down from defending that person. I personally am not practicing law atm. People ask me WHY (oh my god but I could be SO rich) all the time.
I always answer the question the same way - ethics! I personally could not stand there and defend someone whom I knew, beyond a reasonable doubt, was guilty of a crime. And I agree that there are attorneys out there getting very wealthy defending people who belong in jail. The legal system is fallable, I do not deny it. I'm a huge believer in judicial reform. But I also believe the due process of the law has to exist for those who honestly ARE innocent.
Perhaps you could scream at the jury too though (not sure where you are and whether there was one - if there was, it was made up of everyday people - not lawyers). I'm obviously not aware of the facts of your case etc etc. And I'm extremely sorry that in this particular circumstance the legal system failed you. That's really all I can say - I'm very sorry.
P.S - My personal opinion of anyone who would dare to abuse another person in such a callous fashion would be - 'here's the soap buddy. Enjoy your time'
I always answer the question the same way - ethics! I personally could not stand there and defend someone whom I knew, beyond a reasonable doubt, was guilty of a crime. And I agree that there are attorneys out there getting very wealthy defending people who belong in jail. The legal system is fallable, I do not deny it. I'm a huge believer in judicial reform. But I also believe the due process of the law has to exist for those who honestly ARE innocent.
Perhaps you could scream at the jury too though (not sure where you are and whether there was one - if there was, it was made up of everyday people - not lawyers). I'm obviously not aware of the facts of your case etc etc. And I'm extremely sorry that in this particular circumstance the legal system failed you. That's really all I can say - I'm very sorry.
P.S - My personal opinion of anyone who would dare to abuse another person in such a callous fashion would be - 'here's the soap buddy. Enjoy your time'
D
Deleted member 5760
You know what else - here law is extremely hard to get into without a very good score. So you pick a few degrees and just hope you get into option 1. I actually (believe it or not) wish I hadn't been so damn smart. Because my second pick was psychology. And maybe if I've scored a little lower I'd have missed out on law school and been a practicing psychologist right now - where I actually might feel like i was ~helping~ people a little more. But that's life. Maybe one day I'll go back and study again. But it's expensive and I'm 30 and I have rent to pay. But I genuinely never went to law school to get rich. I believed in right and wrong. And I'm certain there are lawyers out there (even if not enough of them) whose motives were the same as mine.
- Post starter
- #16
dharmaBum
Platinum Member
One day, it is inevitable, the record will show: appellants brief; action: filed
I have so much other emotional stress going on today! May I please just rest assured that the future will come and there will be an end to at least this iota of anxious anticipation?
I don't have time to write at the moment, but want to come back and participate in this legal conversation. I was once myself working toward what felt like my destiny in law- defending those wrongfully accused of crimes who did not have the resources to resist injustice. The topic is close to my heart.
I have so much other emotional stress going on today! May I please just rest assured that the future will come and there will be an end to at least this iota of anxious anticipation?
I don't have time to write at the moment, but want to come back and participate in this legal conversation. I was once myself working toward what felt like my destiny in law- defending those wrongfully accused of crimes who did not have the resources to resist injustice. The topic is close to my heart.
Before you keep coming back and leaving more pearls of legal wisdom, Superjen, it might be a good idea to allow others the same degree of hyoer-rationality you lay claim to as a member of that august sect. Your diatribe does not bod well for a cool perfomance in the courtroom.
There are exceptions to every rule.owhere did I accuse all attorneys everywhere of collusion, deceit or ulterior motives in their practices. I'm sure there are many fine, beautifully intentioned men and women of the legal profession performing their duties to the single letter of the law and fulfilling the intent of the writers of the laws of the various countries with integrity.I didn't even tell a good lawyer joke.Admirable for anyone to have worked their backsides off to have obtained a degree in any profession, be it attorney or dishwasher because it indicates directed intent. Good for you. Having that degree does not give one the inherent right to disallow others either their very real expereinces or their observations based on those also very real expereinces. There is absolutely no arguing that those with ambition towards higher office, or with some sleezy motivation have used offices, armed with a law degree, to the detriment of others. precedents have been set in law, and used in court wildly to the detriment of the general population and I just do not see where that's at all an arguable point, even if one is armed with the requisite degree with which to legally refute what I've claimed on the somewhat spurious grounds that I do not know what I'm talking about. A higher degree of learning only commands respect from others if it is accompanied perhaps by wisdom, forbearance and a certain humbleness. One does not receive these things wrapped up in the sheepskin automatically up on the podium.
PTSD reactivity aside, it just plain isn't cool to go up in smoke over other's posts when the intent hasn't been at all in your personal 'story, or you personally. There are many who have awful stories of injustice by the 'justice' system. Since apparently one must be absolutely clear, then I will state I have, precedence included and no, have no desire to cite case and point. It was not a singular event. If one is to take up this particular issue, perhaps then in one's own a career it would be a goal to begin to improve the public perception of the justice system. Going up in smoke over the incorrectly perceived ignorance of someone's statements gained through expereince just because they do not own a degree in the subject is not getting anyone anywhere but annoyed.
There are exceptions to every rule.owhere did I accuse all attorneys everywhere of collusion, deceit or ulterior motives in their practices. I'm sure there are many fine, beautifully intentioned men and women of the legal profession performing their duties to the single letter of the law and fulfilling the intent of the writers of the laws of the various countries with integrity.I didn't even tell a good lawyer joke.Admirable for anyone to have worked their backsides off to have obtained a degree in any profession, be it attorney or dishwasher because it indicates directed intent. Good for you. Having that degree does not give one the inherent right to disallow others either their very real expereinces or their observations based on those also very real expereinces. There is absolutely no arguing that those with ambition towards higher office, or with some sleezy motivation have used offices, armed with a law degree, to the detriment of others. precedents have been set in law, and used in court wildly to the detriment of the general population and I just do not see where that's at all an arguable point, even if one is armed with the requisite degree with which to legally refute what I've claimed on the somewhat spurious grounds that I do not know what I'm talking about. A higher degree of learning only commands respect from others if it is accompanied perhaps by wisdom, forbearance and a certain humbleness. One does not receive these things wrapped up in the sheepskin automatically up on the podium.
PTSD reactivity aside, it just plain isn't cool to go up in smoke over other's posts when the intent hasn't been at all in your personal 'story, or you personally. There are many who have awful stories of injustice by the 'justice' system. Since apparently one must be absolutely clear, then I will state I have, precedence included and no, have no desire to cite case and point. It was not a singular event. If one is to take up this particular issue, perhaps then in one's own a career it would be a goal to begin to improve the public perception of the justice system. Going up in smoke over the incorrectly perceived ignorance of someone's statements gained through expereince just because they do not own a degree in the subject is not getting anyone anywhere but annoyed.
I may not have a law degree but I do know that in our country even the guilty are legally entitled to a defense.
No jury. It was a long and difficult process for me as a child but it never even made it to a court room. My step-father's attorney worked out a deal with the prosecutor before it got to that point. And honestly, his attorney was just doing his job exactly the way he's supposed to do it within the workings of our legal system. I just don't understand how a person could live with themselves knowing that's what they did for a living. I blame the prosecutor more than anyone for agreeing to and allowing such a deal to be made.
Our legal system at it's finest! (*sarcasm*)
D
Deleted member 541
In my opinion, the criminals/perpetrators have more rights here (States) than the victims do. Just makes me sick. Plus if they are convicted, then end up getting out early, due to overcrowding in the jails or good behavior. Then they get out and re offend...
I also think that for perpetrators, there should be no DEALS and they should get the maximum!!!!!! I would settle for a life sentence for them, but I know that will never happen....
I also think that for perpetrators, there should be no DEALS and they should get the maximum!!!!!! I would settle for a life sentence for them, but I know that will never happen....
- Post starter
- #20
dharmaBum
Platinum Member
I agree with the notion that public's perception of the legal/justice system could stand extreme re-education. From experience, I know this applies to the United States justice system, it may apply to others as well.
In the U.S., criminal court cases proceed within a highly proscriptive set of requirements that in some sense have little to with justice or compassion as seen from a victim's perspective. In spirit and practice these cases are about determining the defendant's guilt, based on the assumption that he or she is innocent. Given this filter, the defendant/accused receives many protections while the victim may feel exposed and vulnerable and is often retraumatized. An accused person who maintains their innocence after a guilty verdict is obtained has a legal right to a free appeal.
My frustration with the process is the length of each stage and the lack of support for victims and witnesses in general, but specifically after the trial phase is completed.
As superJen mentioned early on, it is possible that innocent people are accused of crimes and sentenced to prison. This could happen to any one of us and you would bet we would be thankful for an appeal that could right the situation. Racial segregation in U.S. public schools was challenged and eventually ended because of a precedent case that changed the law. I wouldn't want it otherwise. Additionally, the hope is that the extra review given during the appeals process further validates the verdict when/if it is affirmed.
However, the perception that the criminal/legal system will right the wrongs of crime is one that we are taught from childhood and is, in my opinion, egregiously fallacious.
Take me for example: I'm lucky! The state choose to prosecute the rape cases 20 years ago and the defendant plead guilty. Eventually the state passed a law that sex offenders have to register, so the community should have been protected from this criminal. He was accused of raping another child, the state choose to prosecute the case, the jury returned a guilty verdict, and now he is in prison. The percentage of child sexual abuse victims who see their abuser prosecuted is incredibly slim. His appeal will impact the future- whether there is a retrial, whether he spends most of the rest of his life in prison.
None of this fantastic intervention has saved me from continual anxiety about being confronted or shunned by his family members and supporters. It didn't save the 7 year old girl from rape. It was never designed to. It has nothing to do with me as a victim. I hear the frustration that others have shared in this thread about the lack of justice in the system. Perhaps it is the kind of injustice that may propel those who are able into advocating for a more humane world for everyone else. We need more support for victims and witnesses while appeals are in process. We need to teach children and the public in general how the criminal justice system really works and fix it so those in power aren't inclined to hide its failings. It is in our best interest to challenge the status quo.
In the U.S., criminal court cases proceed within a highly proscriptive set of requirements that in some sense have little to with justice or compassion as seen from a victim's perspective. In spirit and practice these cases are about determining the defendant's guilt, based on the assumption that he or she is innocent. Given this filter, the defendant/accused receives many protections while the victim may feel exposed and vulnerable and is often retraumatized. An accused person who maintains their innocence after a guilty verdict is obtained has a legal right to a free appeal.
My frustration with the process is the length of each stage and the lack of support for victims and witnesses in general, but specifically after the trial phase is completed.
As superJen mentioned early on, it is possible that innocent people are accused of crimes and sentenced to prison. This could happen to any one of us and you would bet we would be thankful for an appeal that could right the situation. Racial segregation in U.S. public schools was challenged and eventually ended because of a precedent case that changed the law. I wouldn't want it otherwise. Additionally, the hope is that the extra review given during the appeals process further validates the verdict when/if it is affirmed.
However, the perception that the criminal/legal system will right the wrongs of crime is one that we are taught from childhood and is, in my opinion, egregiously fallacious.
Take me for example: I'm lucky! The state choose to prosecute the rape cases 20 years ago and the defendant plead guilty. Eventually the state passed a law that sex offenders have to register, so the community should have been protected from this criminal. He was accused of raping another child, the state choose to prosecute the case, the jury returned a guilty verdict, and now he is in prison. The percentage of child sexual abuse victims who see their abuser prosecuted is incredibly slim. His appeal will impact the future- whether there is a retrial, whether he spends most of the rest of his life in prison.
None of this fantastic intervention has saved me from continual anxiety about being confronted or shunned by his family members and supporters. It didn't save the 7 year old girl from rape. It was never designed to. It has nothing to do with me as a victim. I hear the frustration that others have shared in this thread about the lack of justice in the system. Perhaps it is the kind of injustice that may propel those who are able into advocating for a more humane world for everyone else. We need more support for victims and witnesses while appeals are in process. We need to teach children and the public in general how the criminal justice system really works and fix it so those in power aren't inclined to hide its failings. It is in our best interest to challenge the status quo.
- Post starter
- #21
dharmaBum
Platinum Member
I continue to wait for the appeal to be published. To wait without waiting. To let my mind be at ease. To let my mind think what it wants. To guard against intrusive thoughts and memories.
D
Deleted member 5760
I have already stated I have serious personal issues with the legal system. I agree! We are not in a courtroom and I am not here to win a case.. I'm not even practicing atm I agree so strongly with the ethical side of things.
'Your diatribe does not bod well for a cool perfomance in the courtroom'... (I wasn't aware we were in a courtroom?)
Can you please send these complaints to your lawyer. Because if you want the truth - you're actually really hurting my feelings right now. AM I lil defensive about this - of course. Because this is what I studied with good intention and felt passionate about. So I'm asking you to please, if possible, stop this argument with me and direct your anger where it should be placed. And not at me. Because I really don't have anything to do with your situation, and all you're doing is making me feel about 1 inch tall. I am extremely sorry that anything bad ever happened to you. And I am also extremely sorry that you are caught in a system that is not working for you. I wont say another word. Lips are zipped.
'Your diatribe does not bod well for a cool perfomance in the courtroom'... (I wasn't aware we were in a courtroom?)
Can you please send these complaints to your lawyer. Because if you want the truth - you're actually really hurting my feelings right now. AM I lil defensive about this - of course. Because this is what I studied with good intention and felt passionate about. So I'm asking you to please, if possible, stop this argument with me and direct your anger where it should be placed. And not at me. Because I really don't have anything to do with your situation, and all you're doing is making me feel about 1 inch tall. I am extremely sorry that anything bad ever happened to you. And I am also extremely sorry that you are caught in a system that is not working for you. I wont say another word. Lips are zipped.
- Post starter
- #23
dharmaBum
Platinum Member
superjen are you talking to me?
D
Deleted member 5760
No DharmaBum... I was talking to anni.
- Status
Donation drives
Trending content
-
-
What Are You Feeling Today? Not Thinking, Rather Feeling! Can You Identify Yours?
- goingonhope
Comments: 34K -
-
-
-
Latest posts
-
-
What Are You Feeling Today? Not Thinking, Rather Feeling! Can You Identify Yours?
- Latest: Lost in the Woods
-
-
-
-
