Based on your concern about a scumbucket you prosecuted, the danger is very real. Not long ago we had a prosecutor killed at home by a bad guy he put away who carried a grudge. Actually, the prosecutor succeeded in defending his family, killed the bad guy before he himself died from gunshot wounds.
Per keeping the gun secure at home, get a gun-vault unit (the actual brand-name may be somewhat different - will freepmail you with the name and sources.) This unit can be bolted to your nightstand and will allow you quick access to the gun by touch (in the dark) but keep it secured from unauthorized persons (youngsters and adults.)
The gun needs to be kept loaded so you can respond to a possible intruder without trying to fumble through loading the gun while under stress.
Beyond this, I recommend hardening your home against forced intrusion and training your family about proper responses to "strangers, etc.
Happy to answer any questions you have that might help you to stay safe.
Would you mind if I forwarded this to my wife? She says I haven't had a good idea in 20 years.