For many people facing a long sentence, the hardest part comes before they ever see a cell. RJ Johnson knows this firsthand. He was out on bond for a year before he began serving a 20-year sentence in 2013. At first, he kept living normally: the gym, dinners out, new clothes. Then, as sentencing got closer, he started asking himself why he was even bothering. “My life’s done. My life’s over,” he remembers thinking.
He served six and a half years. Today, through Not My Will Ministries, he works inside state and federal prisons. He also prepares people who are about to go in. On Criminal INjustice, he told Casey Krizman what he wishes every one of them knew.
Prison is a new culture. RJ describes it as a new country, with its own language and its own currency. Ramen noodles can start a fight. Inmates sort each other into a social ranking, and certain offenses put people at the bottom. “Your word matters. Your choices really matter. Relationships are huge,” he says.
Have a plan for conflict. RJ teaches a framework he calls SOUL: Stop, Observe, Understand, then make a Loving response. When someone demands your belongings, the loving response may be to ask what they really need, not to throw a punch. Most fights inside, he says, start with “I had no choice.”
Don’t settle into comfort. RJ came to believe that “there is no growth in the comfort zone,” a line he credits to Jocko Willink. He tells the men he works with that they have a choice: settle in, or use the time to change.
Focus on today. Asking his chaplains every week when he’d get out only made the time drag. Things turned when he stopped counting days and started serving the people around him.
Casey calls his version of this idea making “the next hardest right move.” RJ calls it the next wise decision. For anyone who feels like prison means the end, his message is simple: what you’re feeling is real, but it isn’t the end of your story. Turn yourself in, call a lawyer and take responsibility.
Watch Video
Audio Podcast
Krizman Law is known for its relentless pursuit of justice for clients. That means thoughtfully listening to the client's story, diligently investigating the circumstances and the law, and aggressively advocating for the client in front of prosecutors, judges, and juries. If you're looking for a lawyer to fight on your behalf, consider these other Krizman Law success stories or call us at 720-734-3204.
Need Legal Advice?
If you are in Colorado and have been charged with a crime, contact Krizman Law TODAY for a confidential review of your legal case.
Mr. Krizman is a criminal defense attorney in Denver, Colorado. He specializes in providing relentless defense for domestic violence, DUI, and drug crimes. He is a former public defender who has also worked for a district attorney and is licensed in the State of Colorado, and the United States Federal Court, District of Colorado. Mr. Krizman is a member of the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, Colorado Bar Association, Denver Bar Association, and Arapahoe County Bar Association. A Colorado native, he has a law degree from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, and a bachelor’s degree in Government and World Affairs from the University of Tampa. Call him today at 720-734-3204.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading or viewing this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. The content should not be considered a substitute for competent legal counsel from a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained herein. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any information provided in this content without first seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice. Please contact us directly if you would like to discuss your specific legal situation. Do not send any confidential information to us through comments or messages on this platform.