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Céline Dostaler
What to Include in a Character Reference to Ask a Judge for Leniency
When someone you care about is facing sentencing in court, writing a character reference letter to the judge can be a powerful way to provide context about their character and contributions outside of their legal challenges. A well-written character reference can provide insight that a judge may not otherwise have, helping to humanize the person and support the case for a fair, compassionate sentence. In this blog post, I’ll cover what to include in a character reference to ask a judge for leniency, along with some tips to make your letter as impactful as possible.
- Introduce Yourself and Explain Your Relationship to the Accused
Start by introducing yourself to the judge. Mention your full name, occupation, and any relevant background that can establish your credibility. Clearly state your relationship to the accused and how long you have known them. Judges are often more receptive to letters from close friends, family members, employers, or mentors because these individuals usually have a deeper, more personal understanding of the person’s character.
Example: "My name is Jane Smith, and I am the supervisor of John Doe at ABC Corporation, where we have worked together for the past five years. Over this time, I have come to know John not only as a dedicated employee but as a friend." - Acknowledge the Offence and Show Understanding of Its Seriousness
It’s essential to acknowledge the offence for which the person has been convicted. Judges appreciate honesty, and glossing over the offence may give the impression that you don’t take it seriously. Express understanding of the legal issue while also mentioning how you believe this behaviour is out of character.
Example: "I understand that John has been convicted of [offence] and that this is a serious matter. However, I believe that this behaviour is uncharacteristic of him, and I have never known him to act in this way before." - Highlight Positive Traits and Contributions
After addressing the offence, shift the focus to the person’s positive qualities. Describe specific instances that showcase their kindness, work ethic, reliability, or commitment to family. Avoid vague statements and use concrete examples to give the judge a clearer picture of the person’s character.
Example: "John has always been a kind and supportive friend to those around him. Last year, he organized a neighbourhood food drive, which ended up supporting over 50 families in need. His dedication to helping others has always been evident, and I believe he genuinely regrets the mistake that brought him before the court." - Mention Any Efforts Toward Rehabilitation or Positive Change
If the individual has shown remorse or taken steps to address their behaviour, such as attending therapy, engaging in community service, or seeking counselling, be sure to mention it. Judges are often looking for signs that a person is willing to make positive changes, as this can indicate a lower risk of reoffending.
Example: "Since the incident, John has started attending weekly sessions with a counsellor to understand and address the issues that led to his behaviour. He is committed to making positive changes and is determined to become a better person through this process." - Express Your Belief in Their Potential and Commitment to Improvement
Judges often take character references into account because they want to understand if the person is likely to learn from this experience and reintegrate as a law-abiding citizen. Share your belief in their potential to grow, and express your confidence in their future.
Example: "I am confident that John will learn from this experience and use it as a turning point to better himself. I truly believe that, given the chance, he will make the necessary changes to become a positive influence in the community once again." - Conclude with a Request for Leniency
Finish your letter by respectfully asking the judge to consider your words when determining the sentence. While it’s essential to be tactful, you may ask for leniency, probation, or a community-based sentence, depending on the circumstances.
Example: "Your Honour, I respectfully ask that you consider this letter and the information I have shared about John. I hope that you will take his positive qualities, his commitment to change, and his contributions to the community into account when deciding on his sentence. I believe that leniency in his case would give him the opportunity he needs to rebuild and continue making a positive impact."
Additional Tips for Writing an Effective Character Reference
- Keep it concise and focused: Judges receive many documents, so aim to keep your letter brief, ideally one page.
- Use respectful language: Address the judge as "Your Honour" and maintain a respectful tone throughout.
- Proofread your letter: Ensure your letter is clear, error-free, and professionally written.
- Avoid exaggeration: Be sincere and avoid overly dramatic language or statements that could be perceived as exaggerated.
Final Thoughts
Writing a character reference for someone facing sentencing is an opportunity to help the court see the person beyond the offence. By thoughtfully outlining their character, contributions, and commitment to change, you can help present a fuller picture that supports the case for a fair and lenient sentence. Always remember that the goal is not to excuse the offence but to provide insight that may assist the judge in reaching a balanced decision. Contact me.
