If you are a single parent, then let the judge know that. Explain to the judge the circumstances surrounding your relationship with the defendant. Three years in prison would completely derail my plans to become a doctor, which is another reason my eyes have been opened to the foolishness of my action. Attorney Joanna Lenefonte Beck Law Office, L. Thanks in advance for your thoughtful replies.
Now, I see that I sacrificed my moral standards to be accepted by so-called friends. Explain Why Extreme Sentencing Would Be Harmful In the last paragraph, the defendant should explain why an extreme prison sentence would be harmful. But most of my diary has nothing to do with the events of this case. There are some private forums that require registration, please register. What better way that to tell a story about such mercy exercised by the defendant? Any time a person writes a letter to the judge it should be polite, respectful and professional looking.
If the defendant is given probation, then he or she will be released back out to the general population without spending time in jail. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. We had to let him go from his job because of the time he spent in prison waiting for trial. You want the judge to know that you are writing the letter with full knowledge that the defendant has been charged with a crime. This website is protected by Copyright © 2006-2019.
This should include the effects on the family as well as employment. These templates will give them an idea of how to set up the letter, how to address it and sign it, and what to include in the letters. If you cannot stop yourself from making your letter about you instead of about the defendant, or if you find yourself focusing on how the letter makes you sound, please don't write the letter. Set the font type and size to something readable. Some sample letters to judge are also attached that will help you to customize your letter. The prosecutor has agreed to drop one charge of kidnap and two charges of rape in exchange for a guilty plea from the defendant on one charge of sexual battery. How Much Effect Do They Have? You don't want to say anything that will hurt your friend, and his lawyer is the best person to advise you on whether your letter is helpful or if there is some information that should be omitted.
Is it that a long sentence would be a travesty of justice? Check that all of your text, from the date at the top left of the letter to the signature, is aligned at the left margin. I have told everyone out there that is in the county that this judge presides in to vote his but out next time. In Denmark we do not have character witnesses. Use the judge's name, official title and mailing address. Cat ended up banished from the bookstore on pain of death, but lived.
If not, then the lawyer will not send it on to the judge. This allows us to preview them for any content that might prove detrimental to our client. With that in mind, here are some rules: This letter is not a vehicle for you to express yourself. The letters need to be written directly to the judge handling the case and should be professional. In other situations, you may need a Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order, along with a written description of the abuse. The first paragraph of the letter is the introduction.
When I think about punching the two victims outside the bar that night, I am filled with sadness and regret for what I have done. Thank you for your attention. State why you are writing the letter. McComas holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater from West Virginia University and a Master of Arts in scriptwriting from Bath Spa University. Before deciding to write a letter, you should talk to your lawyer about whether or not a letter from you will help. Even if your boss will hold your job for you, it might put undue strain on your boss and his business.
Identify yourself and the reason for writing the letter. If you're a defendant, accentuate your positive aspects, and inform the judge of how the sentence might affect your life and the lives of your family and friends. Character Letters - Michael P. What happens when your testimony contradicts earlier statements? If anything, one could make an argument that innocent people are more likely to confess. There are multiple reasons a sentence can be reduced after sentencing but a motion is still required and not a personal letter.
You should also ask your son's attorney to motion the court to have you endorsed as a witness in the sentencing hearing. As a single mother, I am responsible for my children as their father disappeared long ago and I cannot locate him. If the defendant has admitted his wrongdoing to you, tell that to the judge, as this is seen as a positive. A letter to a judge should include the judge's full name, title and address, along with the defendants return address, and everything should line up to the left margin. Include only important details and make every sentence count. I'm trying to exercise daily. You should let the judge know how being in prison will affect your family.