Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | February 5, 2025 | Criminal Defense

How to Write a Character Letter for a Judge

When facing the criminal justice system, it’s important to understand the possible ways to reduce the consequences. In some cases, this might include presenting a character letter to the court. A character letter is a written statement that provides a personal account of the defendant’s character, often from a friend, family member, or colleague, to offer context about their personality, history, and behavior.

When is a Character Letter Used in Criminal Proceedings?

A character letter can play an important role at different stages of criminal proceedings by offering more information about the defendant’s life and character. This helps the judge see them as a person instead of just another case. Below are the most common situations where character letters are used:

  • Sentencing hearings: After a defendant is convicted or pleads guilty, there is a sentencing hearing where the judge determines the appropriate punishment. A character letter can show evidence of the defendant’s personality, work ethic, home life, and contributions to the community. This is the most common situation in which a character letter would be used for criminal proceedings. 
  • Bail hearings: Bail hearings decide whether a defendant can be released from custody while awaiting trial and under what conditions. A character letter can reassure the court that the defendant is responsible and poses no flight risk. This gives the defendant a better chance of being released on their own recognizance or at least having the judge set a reasonable bail amount.
  • Expungement petitions: When seeking to have a criminal record cleared through expungement, a character letter can demonstrate the positive changes and rehabilitation the individual has undergone since the offense. This letter can increase the chances of a successful expungement by showing that the defendant truly deserves a second chance. This is particularly important if the prosecutor is contesting the expungement petition. 

A character letter can significantly help a defendant in any of these situations. The best way to determine the next steps is to speak with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. 

Who Should Write a Character Letter?

Choosing the right person to write this letter helps mitigate the consequences of a criminal matter. Below are some of the individuals who could write a character letter on your behalf: 

  • Family members: Family members are often the most familiar with the defendant’s personal life and can speak to their upbringing, values, and everyday behavior. A letter from a family member can demonstrate that the defendant has a strong support system and an important role within the family.
  • Friends: Friends who have known the defendant for a long time can also offer a candid view of their personality and actions outside of their family. Friends can give examples of the defendant’s positive traits and contributions. A friend’s support can show that they truly believe the defendant can change and maintain healthy relationships. 
  • Employers or supervisors: Employers can speak to the defendant’s work ethic and reliability. A letter from an employer can also show that the defendant still has a job if they remain out of custody. This shows that the defendant will have a way to support themselves and their family.
  • Clergy or religious leaders: Religious leaders who know the defendant can discuss their moral character, how committed they are to their faith, and any involvement in community activities. They can speak to the defendant’s integrity, compassion, and efforts to lead a positive and spiritual life. 
  • Community leaders: Community leaders, such as coaches and volunteer workers in the community, can attest to the defendant’s involvement and contributions to the people around them. They can explain that the defendant has a clear desire to help others and add something positive to the community. 
  • Therapist: A therapist who has worked closely with the defendant can provide unique information about their mental health. A therapist can explain the defendant’s progress in therapy and efforts to overcome the issues that played a part in their criminal behavior. 

For example, if the defendant has been struggling with substance abuse and that was what led to the crime, a counselor can explain how their addiction contributed to their behavior and what the defendant has done to deal with their issues. 

Choosing the right person to write a character letter is an important decision, as it will play a role in how seriously the court takes the document.

What to Include in a Character Letter

A well-written character letter can impact the outcome of a criminal proceeding by providing a personal perspective on the defendant. To make a letter effective, the following should be included:

  • Introduction of the writer and relationship to the defendant: The letter should begin with the writer’s name, occupation, and how they know the defendant. It should also mention the length of time they’ve known the defendant.
  • Specific examples of positive qualities: The writer can share examples of times when the defendant demonstrated positive traits, like integrity, responsibility, or compassion. 
  • Acknowledgment of the situation: It’s essential for the writer to briefly reference the charges or circumstances. The writer needs to acknowledge that they understand how serious the situation is.
  • Expression of support and belief in rehabilitation: The letter writer should also share their belief that the defendant can make positive changes in their life. If the writer has seen the defendant take positive steps toward rehabilitation, they should share this information here. This could include going to therapy.
  • Positive impact of the defendant’s actions on others: It’s also helpful to describe how the defendant positively affects the lives of their family and friends. Explain how serious penalties, like jail time, would affect the defendant and the people around them.
  • Closing Statement: The writer can summarize their support for the defendant and reiterate their belief in their character. The writer should also include their contact information in case the court has questions or needs more information. 

Each character letter will be slightly different, but these are some of the most important things to include. 

To make sure you have the best character letter possible, you should always work with your criminal defense attorney. The team at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers has over 60 years of combined experience representing clients just like you. For more information, please contact the [RELATED PRACTICE AREA] law firm of Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a consultation. Give us a call at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:

We serve the surrounding areas of Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX.

Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102