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.
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph. Outline your relationship with the person who is the subject of the legal proceedings. Acknowledge the charges that have been brought against the person. State your opinion of the person's general character.
The letters should include how the person knows you and the length of time they've known you. Some topics that may be featured in the letters can include how hardworking you are, your integrity, the positive impact you have on people's lives, or your contributions to your local community.
If sufficiently well-written, even one letter could make an impression on a judge. If more than one, or many more than one, this will always make a favorable impression. It is not a guarantee of more favorable treatment at sentencing, but it sure won't hurt.
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.
Character reference letters describe the skills and traits you display outside the workplace. The people who write these letters know you personally. They can include teachers, coaches, landlords or people you know from your volunteer work or worship group.
Elements: full mailing address of the sender. date on which letter is written. address of person to whom letter is addressed. subject line. salutation. body (the main message) complimentary closing. signature line (be sure to sign your letter)
Format full mailing address of the sender. date on which letter is written. address of person to whom letter is addressed. subject line. salutation. body (the main message) complimentary closing. signature line (be sure to sign your letter)
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.
If the judge's name is "John Smith," then in references to him that would be read by others (e.g., the mailing address on a letter) you would refer to him "The Honorable John Smith" (or some might just use "Hon."). In directly communicating with him in writing, I would start with "Dear Judge Smith."
Either “Judge” or “The Honorable” is acceptable. It's also acceptable to use “To Whom It May Concern.”