A character witness letter is a crucial element in legal proceedings, particularly in sentencing hearings. It provides a comprehensive picture of the defendant beyond the legal charges brought against them.
What Is a Character Witness Letter
A character witness letter is a written statement by someone who knows the defendant and can vouch for their character. Often written by friends, family or colleagues of the person facing the court, it is meant to paint a broader image of the person, beyond the specific circumstances of the legal case. This letter can sometimes be a deciding factor in the final sentence.
Establishing Credibility
Begin your letter by establishing your credibility as a reference for the defendant. You should start by discussing how long you have known the defendant and how you know them— whether it is a professional capacity or a personal relationship.
Description of the Defendant
The next step is describing the defendant to help the judge better understand them beyond the offense committed. Instead of simply describing the defendant in terms like “he is loyal,” tell a story about his loyalty, or how he has been an upstanding member of the community. A story stands out more, making your letter more effective.
Respect
It’s crucial to show respect to the criminal justice system in your letter. Instead of arguing about the defendant’s guilt or innocence, focus on telling a story about the defendant. Even a simple phrase like “I respect that a jury has found _____ guilty of _____ crime” can show respect for the system while still advocating for the defendant.
Appropriate Formatting
The letter’s format is just as important. It should be typed on standard paper (8.5 by 11-inch) to make it easy for the court to read.
Include your name, mailing address, phone number, and email address so that the court can verify your information. Address it to the Honourable [FIRST NAME] [LAST NAME] or Judge [FIRST NAME] [LAST NAME].
Making Your “Ask”
At the end of your letter, make an “ask” of the court. This could be as simple as requesting leniency due to the defendant’s exemplary history.
Conclusions
Writing a character witness letter requires tact, honesty, and a deep understanding of the person you are writing about. It requires a careful balance between advocating for the defendant and respecting the judicial process. But done well, a character witness letter can have a significant impact on the final sentence and potentially assist your loved ones in a significant way.