This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
Your lawyer is likely to use no more than six letters, and if you collect more than six, your lawyer will select the most persuasive from among them. How long should the letter be – again, there is no hard rules, but try to be sensitive to the judge's or prosecutor's time.
Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for support from a criminal defense attorney. Start with a Clear Introduction. Introduce Yourself and Establish Credibility. Provide Reasons for Leniency. Tell a Story or Give Specific Examples. Provide Your Contact Information. Not the Same as a Motion to Modify a Sentence.
More specifically, explain how you met him and how well you feel you know him. Your letter will carry more weight with the judge if you explain exactly how you have been able to form an impression about the defendant, for example, because you worked with him for several years or you have known him since childhood.
For individuals writing character letters, the goal should be to first establish your credibility as a reference for the defendant. Next, the letter should describe the defendant, in order to help the judge better understand him or her beyond the offense committed.
Instructions for writing the letters: Introduction: Write the date. First Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences): Introduce yourself to the judge. Second Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences): What are the positive character traits of the person who is trying to clear their record? ... Third Paragraph (write 3-5 sentences). Closing:
The best character letters often begin with the writer explaining who he or she is and what he or she does. You should then explain how long and under what circumstances you have known the defendant.
Conclude the letter with a polite closing, such as ``Sincerely'' or ``Respectfully,'' followed by your full name and signature. Remember to proofread the letter carefully before sending it, and ensure that it adheres to any specific guidelines or protocols for communication with the court.
I am writing to formally request the expungement of my criminal conviction from YEAR for OFFENSE. I fully take responsibility for my past mistakes and deeply regret the impact they caused on others and my life.
Introduce yourself and establish credibility: Provide information about who you are, your relationship to the defendant, and any relevant credentials or experiences that may lend credibility to your perspective. Provide reasons for expungement: Detail the reasons why you believe the defendant deserves expungement.
When writing, avoid simply describing the defendant in terms like “he is loyal.” Instead, tell a story about his loyalty, or how he has been an upstanding member of the community. A story will stand out in the judge's mind more than adjectives will, making your letter more effective.