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Since posting this below message approximately 1 year ago, Evan, the oldest son in the below paragraph, had an amazing wedding and my entire family is ecstatic about Leah being officially brought in to the family. Another wedding anniversary has come and gone, and I (Austin) have started a Master's program while continuing my sights on med school. This little update is to show why we are continuing to fight. The harder we fight, the better chance my dad has to not have to miss any more of these big life moments.
Here is the message from my dad:
"One year ago, this page started to raise awareness of my legal battle and ask for your help. Looking back, it can seem like the year went fast. But the reality is, that roughly 365 days have passed, each one offering its own challenges, as well as successes. Some of you have read my blogs and know the struggles I faced this year. If not, you can go to the page at http://mylifeinside.home.blog. For those who have shared my journey, here are some highlights this year has brought:
§ My oldest son is engaged (and better yet, she said yes!). The wedding date is set for early summer 2020. I’m so happy for our families.
§ My youngest son graduated college. Now his sights are set on med school. He gives me many reasons to be a proud father.
§ My wife and I celebrated our 26th year of marriage. As hard as it is, we are still working through the struggle of being apart.
§ With the help of friends, old and new, I hired an experienced lawyer and filed motions with the court to gain relief from my convictions.
Almost 2 months since the formal filing with the court, I’m waiting for some action. I didn’t think I would feel this way, but I am scared to death. I am confident in my argument and proof of unlawful trial practices, but worry the motions could still be turned back, find some legal wrangling. With this constantly on my mind, I go through the “what if” scenario:
“What if” I do lose this round? Well, I can appeal the decision. I actually have a couple of legal options that I can pursue, but they all cost money… money that I am in desperate need of. But I only want to focus on the first step and, God willing, will not have to worry about other actions.
The goal last year was to raise $40,000 for legal fees. With your help, a little over half has been raised. This is awesome. I’m so thankful for your kindness, but I need more help.
In the next few months, I expect to go back to court in Polk County. That hearing will cost $10-$12,000. After hiring the attorney, filing the initial motions, and other fees and expenses, the current account will fall short in by about $6,000. Please consider a donation of any size to help. Passing this along to others would be a great help as well. I hate asking, but what would you do?
There’s a wedding, graduation, and a wife to get home too. Please help me."
My son Austin Barnes has a separate bank account for my legal fees, which will be directly, and only, used for. Thanks in advance to anyone who is willing to donate and help my family.
Here is the message from my dad:
"One year ago, this page started to raise awareness of my legal battle and ask for your help. Looking back, it can seem like the year went fast. But the reality is, that roughly 365 days have passed, each one offering its own challenges, as well as successes. Some of you have read my blogs and know the struggles I faced this year. If not, you can go to the page at http://mylifeinside.home.blog. For those who have shared my journey, here are some highlights this year has brought:
§ My oldest son is engaged (and better yet, she said yes!). The wedding date is set for early summer 2020. I’m so happy for our families.
§ My youngest son graduated college. Now his sights are set on med school. He gives me many reasons to be a proud father.
§ My wife and I celebrated our 26th year of marriage. As hard as it is, we are still working through the struggle of being apart.
§ With the help of friends, old and new, I hired an experienced lawyer and filed motions with the court to gain relief from my convictions.
Almost 2 months since the formal filing with the court, I’m waiting for some action. I didn’t think I would feel this way, but I am scared to death. I am confident in my argument and proof of unlawful trial practices, but worry the motions could still be turned back, find some legal wrangling. With this constantly on my mind, I go through the “what if” scenario:
“What if” I do lose this round? Well, I can appeal the decision. I actually have a couple of legal options that I can pursue, but they all cost money… money that I am in desperate need of. But I only want to focus on the first step and, God willing, will not have to worry about other actions.
The goal last year was to raise $40,000 for legal fees. With your help, a little over half has been raised. This is awesome. I’m so thankful for your kindness, but I need more help.
In the next few months, I expect to go back to court in Polk County. That hearing will cost $10-$12,000. After hiring the attorney, filing the initial motions, and other fees and expenses, the current account will fall short in by about $6,000. Please consider a donation of any size to help. Passing this along to others would be a great help as well. I hate asking, but what would you do?
There’s a wedding, graduation, and a wife to get home too. Please help me."
My son Austin Barnes has a separate bank account for my legal fees, which will be directly, and only, used for. Thanks in advance to anyone who is willing to donate and help my family.

