This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
Sample Character Letter To Judge Asking For Leniency In Santa Clara
Category:
State:
Multi-State
County:
Santa Clara
Control #:
US-0006LTR
Format:
Word;
Rich Text
Instant download
Description
Form popularity
FAQ
State that you respect that the defendant has been found guilty or pled guilty to a crime, and that you are writing the letter to offer a fuller picture of him or her as a person. Include specific examples of how the person has helped you or someone else, or how he or she has been a leader or an inspiration.
You Honor, I am writing you this letter to ask for leniency in the sentencing of my husband and that your sentence be merciful and not punitive. My husband has always obtained to working hard for our family and giving us the best support possible. My son and I love my husband very much.
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.
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.
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.
It should include an introduction that establishes how the author knows the defendant and for how long, and positive traits that might encourage the judge or prosecutor to view the defendant favourably. It is also important to acknowledge the charges against the defendant and avoid arguing against them .
The reference should not include the following: the referee's opinion about the appropriate penalty. any irrelevant information. a statement that the offence is 'out of character' if you have committed other offences in the past. any statement that the referee knows is false, or does not agree with.
How to write a character reference letter? Start by explaining your relationship to the candidate. How do you know the candidate? ... Include how long you've known the candidate. Add positive personal qualities with specific examples. Close with a statement of recommendation. Offer your contact information.
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.
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.
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I am writing this letter on behalf of a former student of mine who is presently before you on criminal charges and is due to be sentenced shortly. I am writing this letter behalf of my dear friend Princewill Johnson.Mr. Princewill and I have been close friends over 10 years now. Dear judge (name), I am writing to ask for leniency in the sentencing of my husband, because (then give all your reasons and speak only from your heart). A character letter plays a dual role. Explain why you feel you deserve leniency. A character letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things. At the end of a character letter, most writers make an "ask" of the court. The core of your letter should explain why you believe the judge should show leniency towards the defendant. " Tilley called the letter "repulsive.
