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Sample character letter to judge before sentencing template

Sample character letter to judge before sentencing template 2025

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The document is a memorandum from attorney F. Clinton Broden to the friends and family of a client facing sentencing in a federal court. It provides guidance on how to write supportive letters to the judge, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the client's positive character traits while avoiding any statements about guilt or innocence. The memo outlines the proper format for addressing the judge, content suggestions for the letters, and instructions for submission to ensure they are reviewed before being sent.

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Click ‘Get Form’ to open the sample character letter to judge before sentencing template in our editor.
Begin by entering your return address and the date at the top of the letter. This establishes your identity and provides context for the Judge.
Address the Judge appropriately, using 'Honorable' followed by their name and title. Ensure this is done correctly to maintain professionalism.
In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your relationship with CLIENT, including how long you have known them and your feelings towards them.
Provide a general statement of support for CLIENT, acknowledging their situation and expressing your willingness to assist them if possible.
Detail specific positive character traits of CLIENT in the next section, supported by personal anecdotes that illustrate these qualities.
Conclude with a heartfelt message that reflects CLIENT's acknowledgment of their actions and outlines their plans for moving forward. Emphasize why a prison sentence would be detrimental.
Finally, ensure you do not send the letter directly to the Judge; instead, submit it through our platform for review before it is sent.

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Got questions?

We have answers to the most popular questions from our customers. If you can't find an answer to your question, please contact us.

Should I write a letter to the judge before sentencing?

Writing a letter to the Judge before Sentencing is critical. The letter should first and foremost talk about remorse. The judge wants to hear that you are sorry for your actions and that you understand the consequences of your actions and how you may have harmed others. He or she also want to hear that you have learne.

What is an example of a good character reference letter for court?

[Persons 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 [persons name], because [he/she] has always been a respected person in the community, and a genuine person to everyone [he/she] has come across.

Is it inappropriate to write a letter to a judge?

To decide the sentence, the judge considers the facts in the case, the sentencing guidelines, and other sentencing laws. If either side wants, they can argue what sentence a judge should give at a sentencing hearing.

Do judges read letters sent to them?

We always advise against clients writing letters directly to the judge or the prosecutor. Most of these letters will not be considered, and many end up in the recycling bin. If you have questions or issues, you should discuss them with your defense attorney, who will help you through the process.

How do you write a heartfelt letter to a judge?

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.

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How to write a character letter to a judge before sentencing?

When writing to a judge before sentencing, keep the letter respectful and concise. Introduce yourself and your relationship to the defendant. Focus on positive character traits and any mitigating circumstances without disputing facts. Avoid legal arguments or requests for specific sentences.

Does writing letters to a judge help?

These letters can be a very important part of the sentencing process because they help the judge get to know the person they are sentencing in ways other than just the facts of the offense: The letter should be addressed to the Judge, but mailed to the defendants attorney.