![]() Here are some tips to help you prepare an effective character letter: Make It UniqueĬriminal judges may hear many cases on any given day, week, or month. Tips For Preparing an Effective Character Letter The letter should generally be typed on standard-size paper. A respectful request asking the court for a minimum sentence or alternative sentencing.The impact the defendant’s incarceration would have on others.Specific examples of how the defendant has helped you or someone else.Details about the defendant’s character and life.An explanation of why you are writing the letter.How you know the defendant, and for how long.Your name and contact information in case the court wants to reach you and needs to verify the information.Here is some information you may wish to include in your character letter: A well-written character letter could potentially convince a judge to use the lower recommended sentence or even to deviate entirely from the guidelines. These guidelines recommend a minimum and maximum sentence based on the specific factors of the case. Pennsylvania judges use sentencing guidelines when determining a sentence in a criminal case. The goal of character letters is to minimize the sentence the defendant receives. The letter can help give the judge a better picture of the defendant and differentiate them from others in the criminal justice system. Typically, a judge will only hear from a certain number of character witnesses during this phase but will accept letters from others to review when rendering a decision.Ī character letter can provide details about the defendant, their life, and their character. They are presented to the judge during the sentencing phase, along with the testimony of any live witnesses. A character letter is a letter written by friends, relatives, coworkers, and others who know the defendant in a criminal case.
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