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.
Address the judge with the proper address and salutation. For example, you may write: Honorable Judge's Full Name, United States District Judge, 11 Commerce Street, Dallas, TX 75242. This name and address should be left-justified and written out as you would an address at the top of any letter, below the date.
Character letters can be effective in some criminal cases. A family member, friend, employer, or other party writes a letter to the judge to help mitigate sentencing.
Tips for an Effective Character Letter To a Judge in California Understand the Purpose of a Character Letter. Use Specific Anecdotes Over General Praise. Address the Impact on the Defendant's Support Network. Maintain Respect For the Court. Respect the Judge's Time. Align Your Expectations with Reality.
Follow the order of this format, leaving a space in between each section: Your Information (first thing that goes on the inside of the letter) Name. The Date. The Judge's Information. Honorable Judge First Name Last Name. What the Letter Is Going to Address. Salutation. Body. Signature.
1. Use formal language: Address the judge as "Honorable Full Name". 2. Include proper titles: Use "Dear Judge Last Name" as the salutation.
The core of your letter should explain why you believe the judge should show leniency towards the defendant. Highlight the defendant's positive traits and contributions, such as: Their role in caring for and providing for their family. Good character traits or values they possess.
Follow the order of this format, leaving a space in between each section: Your Information (first thing that goes on the inside of the letter) Name. The Date. The Judge's Information. Honorable Judge First Name Last Name. What the Letter Is Going to Address. Salutation. Body. Signature.