Starting with the Basics Include your name and contact information at the top of the document, along with the date and time of the incident. If you were a witness to a crime, state that you are providing this statement to assist in the investigation and prosecution of the crime.
Don't lie about anything, not even white small lies. If you are discovered to be lying, the judge may find it hard to believe you when you are telling the truth. Don't argue with the questioner. Don't ask questions back: “What would you do if…”
General format - each motion generally consists of a case caption, a title that briefly identifies the relief sought, a series of numbered paragraphs that explains -- in a logical way -- why you are entitled to that relief, a prayer for relief, a signature block, a certification that a copy of the motion was sent to ...
Template for Written Testimony Paragraph 1: Introduce yourself and the issue you want to testify about Paragraph 2: Tell your story Paragraph 3: Explain why you felt the need to testify Paragraph 4: Give suggestions for solving the issue or problem you have raised. Paragraph 5: Thank the Councilmembers
If you are asked to write a character letter for someone, it can be helpful to keep the following tips in mind when creating your letter: Address Your Letter to the Judge. Establish a Clear Relationship with the Defendant. Be Truthful. Be Positive. Include a Discussion of the Crime. Do Not Suggest Penalties for the Crime.
Tips for an Effective Character Letter Tip One: Setting the Stage. As an initial matter, a character letter should only come from people who actually know the defendant. Tip Two: Tell a Story. Tip Three: Avoid Undermining the Case. Tip Four: Formatting Considerations. Tip Five: Understand a Realistic Outcome.
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)
Introduce yourself to the Court. Explain how you know (and how long you have known) the defendant. Make it personal when describing the defendant's characteristics. Can you think of examples of good deeds done by the defendant (hard work, dedication to family/church/community, generosity, etc).
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.
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...