Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter for Court
When someone you care about is charged with a crime, you might feel helpless. But there’s something important you can do, something that doesn’t take a law degree or courtroom experience. You can write a character reference letter.
It may sound small, but in the eyes of the court, it’s not. Judges don’t just sentence based on the facts of the case. They consider who the person is beyond the crime—who they’ve been, how they’ve contributed to their family or community, and whether they seem capable of turning things around. That’s where your letter comes in.
What Is a Character Reference Letter?
A character reference letter is a written statement addressed to the court that offers a personal, honest picture of the defendant. It helps the judge understand who this person is beyond the charges they’re facing.
In Texas criminal cases, these letters are most commonly submitted during the sentencing phase, often after the defendant has pleaded guilty or been convicted. Under Article 37.07 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, the court may consider a wide range of “mitigating evidence” before determining the sentence. A well-written character letter can be part of that.
When Do These Letters Matter Most?
These letters are especially important when the court has sentencing discretion, meaning the judge has room to choose the type or length of sentence based on the circumstances.
They can also play a role in:
- Plea negotiations
- Probation requests
- Pre-sentencing reports
In all these stages, your voice might help the court see the full picture of the person behind the charge.
Who Can Write a Character Letter for Court?
Anyone who knows the defendant personally and can speak to their good character may write a letter. This includes:
- Family members
- Long-time friends
- Employers or supervisors
- Pastors or church leaders
- Coaches, teachers, or mentors
- Community members
What matters most is not your title; it’s how well you know the person and how specific you can be about their character.
Judges often value letters from people outside the immediate family, like employers, pastors, and neighbors, because they tend to feel more objective.
What Makes a Strong Character Letter?
Judges are not looking for flowery praise or exaggeration. They want a sincere, specific story about the defendant that shows they’re more than the crime they committed.
A great character letter includes:
- Specific examples that show the person’s positive traits
- An honest acknowledgment of the charges
- A respectful and formal tone
- Details about how the writer knows the defendant
- Signs of remorse, accountability, or personal growth
A poor letter can actually undermine the defendant’s case if it comes off as dishonest, vague, or dismissive of the charges.
How to Structure Your Character Reference Letter?
Instead of stiff templates, think of this as telling a short story to a judge who’s deciding how much mercy this person deserves. Here’s a good flow:
1. Introduce Yourself
State your name, job, where you live, and how you know the defendant. Keep it short but credible.
“My name is [Your name]. I’m a small business owner in [City, State], and I’ve known [Defendant’s name] for over 8 years as both an employee and a family friend.”
2. State Your Purpose
Tell the judge why you’re writing. Be clear that you’re aware the person is facing sentencing, but you want to offer insight into their character.
“I’m writing to offer a character reference for [Defendant’s name] in connection with his sentencing. I understand the seriousness of the charges and do not excuse his actions, but I believe context about his character may be helpful to the court.”
3. Share Specific Examples
This is the heart of your letter. Don’t just say they’re kind, show it.
“Over the years, I’ve watched [Defendant’s name] go out of his way to mentor younger employees. He regularly volunteers at our neighborhood food drive, even after his recent legal troubles. I’ve also seen him take full accountability, seeking counseling and staying sober for the past 6 months.”
Be sincere and stick to what you truly know.
4. Mention Remorse or Effort to Change (if applicable)
If the person has taken steps since the incident, including therapy, rehab, job searching, or community work, share that. Judges want to see growth.
“Since his arrest, [Defendant’s name] has expressed nothing but regret and a strong desire to change. He attends weekly addiction support meetings and has taken steps to reconnect with his family.”
5. Respectfully Ask for Consideration
End by politely asking the court to take your words into account.
“I hope the court will consider this side of [Defendant’s name] as part of your decision. I truly believe he is committed to making better choices.”
Common Questions
Should I Mention the Specific Crime?
If you know what it is, then yes but briefly. Avoid legal details or justifying the crime. You’re not defending the act, you’re speaking to the person’s character and future.
How Long Should the Letter Be?
Keep it to one page if possible. Judges are busy, and shorter, well-written letters are far more effective than long, rambling ones.
Can the Person Write Multiple Character Letters?
Yes. In fact, 3 to 5 solid letters from different people can help more than just one. They show the person has broad support.
Where Should I Send the Letter?
Typically, the defendant’s attorney will collect and submit the letters to the court. Always ask them for the deadline and exact instructions before you send anything.
Writing a character reference letter might seem small, but it can leave a powerful impression in the courtroom. It won’t erase the charge but it can remind the judge that the defendant is more than the worst thing they’ve done.
In the eyes of the law, people are not just their crimes. Texas courts recognize that under Code of Criminal Procedure § 42.03, judges can consider testimony and written statements before sentencing. Your letter could help shape that decision.
So if you’re in a position to write one, take the time. Speak truthfully. Keep it grounded. Your words could help shape someone’s second chance.
Arrested? Don’t Plea, Call Me!
If your loved one is facing charges, don’t go through it alone. At Texas Criminal Defense Group, we understand how tough this process can be—not just for the defendant, but for everyone who cares about them. Our criminal defense attorneys are here to guide you, including helping you gather strong letters of support.
Call us today for a free consultation. Let’s work together to build the strongest case and future possible.