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.
When setting forth your reasons for leniency, try to tell a story or use examples that help paint a favorable picture of the defendant. For example, if the defendant frequently devotes his/her time to the community, provide specific instances of when the defendant did so.
I appreciate your thoughtfulness, respect, and fairness throughout my trial. I was convicted of shoplifting, and I plan to own up to my actions and make amends for my mistakes. While I can't go back in time and reverse what I did, you can rest assured that this will never happen again.
Character letters, which are also known as “sentencing letters,” are written by the defendant's friends and family members in an effort to convince the judge to assess a lower sentence. These are a mainstay of federal criminal cases.
Here are ways to convince a judge to give you a lesser sentence. Hire a Criminal Lawyer. An experienced criminal defense attorney can identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case. Present Some Mitigating Evidence. Cooperate With Law Enforcement. Strictly Follow Court Orders. Hire a Seasoned Attorney.
Explain why you deserve leniency, such as ignorance or misinformation about your actions, the severity and impact upon your life if the court imposes the maximum outcome, and an absence of a prior history of similar acts. Give the judge a good reason to help you. Don't be too proud to ask for help. Act humbly.
The 5 most common tips in writing an effective leniency letter to a judge include: write a clear introduction, introduce yourself and establish credibility, provide reasons for leniency, tell a story, and. provide contact information.
Be respectful, throughout your letter. Don't use slang or curse-words. End by saying that you are making a request for leniency. This tells the judge that you don't feel entitled to leniency. Don't try to flatter the judge by saying you like him or her or anything like that.
Letters from non-lawyers to judges are absolutely to be avoided. They are inappropriate and violate many rules regarding proper communication with judges. Some letters may be in violation of criminal law that prohibits improper efforts to influenc...
You can file a motion for sentence reduction. Most inmates used a public defender aka public pretender. After your sentence it's usually on you to file the motion. If you're lucky you may get your lawyer to file. If not most prisons have law libraries.