Sentencing Preparation
5 Strategies for Effective Character Reference Letters
Character reference letters can make a meaningful difference at federal sentencing. But poorly written letters can actually hurt your case. Here are five proven strategies for creating letters that judges find compelling and credible.
Strategy 1: Choose Writers Who Can Tell Specific Stories
The most effective character letters come from people who can share specific, concrete examples of the defendant's character. General statements like "He is a good person" carry little weight. Specific stories demonstrate genuine knowledge of the defendant.
Weak vs. Strong Examples
Weak:
"John is always helpful and cares about others."
Strong:
"When my wife was diagnosed with cancer, John organized our neighborhood to provide meals for three months. He personally delivered dinner every Tuesday, and when he learned our lawn mower broke, he bought us a new one without being asked."
The second example shows the defendant's character through action, not assertion. Judges respond to evidence, even in character letters.
Strategy 2: Gather Letters from Diverse Perspectives
A collection of letters from different spheres of the defendant's life creates a comprehensive picture. Having 10 letters from family members is less effective than having letters from:
- Professional contacts: Employers, colleagues, business partners who can speak to work ethic and integrity
- Community members: Neighbors, civic organization members, volunteer coordinators
- Religious leaders: Clergy, ministry leaders, fellow congregants
- Educators: Teachers, coaches, mentors who shaped or were shaped by the defendant
- Family: Spouse, adult children, siblings, parents (selected thoughtfully, not everyone)
- Those helped: Recipients of the defendant's charitable work or mentorship
This diversity shows the defendant's positive impact across multiple areas of life, not just within a supportive family bubble.
Strategy 3: Acknowledge the Offense Appropriately
One of the most common mistakes is letters that ignore or minimize the offense. This damages credibility with the court. Effective letters acknowledge the seriousness of what happened while still advocating for the defendant.
How to Address the Offense
- Acknowledge without excusing: "I was shocked to learn of these charges. While I cannot excuse what happened, the John I know is not defined by this conduct."
- Show understanding of impact: "I understand the harm caused to victims and recognize the seriousness of what John did."
- Express genuine remorse observation: "I have seen John's genuine remorse and his commitment to making amends."
What to Avoid
Never suggest the defendant is being treated unfairly, that the charges are overblown, or that "the real criminals are getting away." This alienates judges and undermines your credibility.
Strategy 4: Explain the Impact of Incarceration
Judges consider the collateral consequences of incarceration. Letters from family members are particularly valuable for explaining:
- Children's needs: How the defendant supports children, special needs considerations, educational involvement
- Caregiving responsibilities: Elderly parents, disabled family members who depend on the defendant
- Financial impact: How the family will manage loss of income, keeping home, providing for dependents
- Community roles: Volunteer positions, mentorship relationships that will be disrupted
The goal isn't to argue against any punishment but to help the court understand the full impact of its decision on innocent family members and the community.
Strategy 5: Make a Clear, Appropriate Request
End letters with a clear but appropriate request. The tone should be respectful, not demanding.
Effective Closing Examples
- "I respectfully ask the Court to consider John's lifetime of contributions when determining his sentence."
- "While I understand John must face consequences for his actions, I hope the Court will show him mercy and allow him to continue caring for his family and serving his community."
- "I believe John can be rehabilitated and will use any opportunity for leniency to demonstrate his commitment to making amends."
Formatting and Submission
The mechanical aspects of letter submission matter too:
- Length: One to two pages is ideal. Longer letters may not be read in full.
- Format: Business letter format, addressed to "The Honorable [Judge's Name]"
- Delivery: Submit through the defense attorney, not directly to the court
- Timing: Deliver well before sentencing to allow inclusion in the sentencing memorandum
- Originals: Provide signed originals, not photocopies
Frequently Asked Questions
How many character letters should be submitted?
Quality matters more than quantity. Generally, 5-15 well-written letters from diverse perspectives are more effective than dozens of repetitive letters.
Who should write character letters for federal court?
Effective letter writers include employers, colleagues, community members, religious leaders, educators, and family members who can provide specific examples of the defendant's character.
What should be included in a character letter?
Include the writer's relationship to the defendant, specific examples of positive character traits, acknowledgment of the offense, description of impact on family/community, and a respectful request for leniency.
How Sam Can Help
Sam Mangel helps clients coordinate their character letter strategy as part of comprehensive sentencing preparation. This includes:
- Writer Selection: Identifying the right mix of people to write on your behalf
- Guidance Documents: Providing writers with clear instructions on what to include and avoid
- Review and Feedback: Reviewing draft letters to ensure they serve your interests
- Coordination: Working with your attorney to integrate letters into the sentencing strategy
Strengthen Your Sentencing Strategy
Effective character letters are just one component of comprehensive sentencing preparation. Contact Sam to discuss your full strategy.