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.
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.
Person's name has always been a loving and caring friend/family member/co-worker since we first met. That is why I am writing this letter to defend person's name, because he/she has always been a respected person in the community, and a genuine person to everyone he/she has come across.
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.
Tip Three: Avoid Undermining the Case It is often tempting for a person writing a character letter to discuss how the defendant isn't really guilty, how this “isn't like him,” how the defendant only pleaded guilty to the crime to get a better sentence, or even how the jury got it wrong.
Person's name has always been a loving and caring friend/family member/co-worker since we first met. That is why I am writing this letter to defend person's name, because he/she has always been a respected person in the community, and a genuine person to everyone he/she has come across.
Include the following tips in a character reference for court: Address the letter to the sentencing judge. Explain your understanding of the defendant's charges. Learn if the defendant has been convicted of this criminal offense in the past. Note how long you've known this person.
Writing the Content of the Letter Write who you are and what your profession is. Explain how you know the defendant. Provide a general statement of support. Write a statement on the defendant's character. Add additional information. Write the conclusion. Avoid improper remarks.
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.
Explain how your actions have affected others and that you understand why your actions were wrong. Explain Your Circumstances – You may evoke some sympathy from the judge if there were extenuating circumstances for your DUI.