A character letter is a written statement from someone who knows the defendant and can tell the court about their background, conduct, responsibilities, and positive qualities. In criminal cases, defendants and other interested persons may submit letters for the court’s consideration before sentencing.
A judge deciding on a sentence sees the offense, the criminal history, and the presentence report. A good character letter adds something none of those documents contain, which is an account of who the person is from someone who actually knows them.
When Are Character Letters Used in a Tucson Criminal Case?
Character letters are most commonly submitted before sentencing, after a guilty plea or conviction. The judge may consider them alongside the presentence report and other aggravating or mitigating information.
Pima County procedure allows either party to request a hearing on aggravating and mitigating factors, and defendants, victims, and other interested parties may submit letters before sentencing.
Who Should Write a Character Letter?
The best writers are people with real, firsthand knowledge of the defendant’s conduct. That can include an employer or supervisor, a coworker, a teacher, a coach, a religious or community leader, a longtime friend, a family member, a neighbor, or a mentor.
A letter from someone who has personally observed the defendant’s work ethic, parenting, reliability, or community involvement can be more persuasive than generic statements.
What Should the Writer Include at the Beginning?
The opening should establish who the writer is and why the court should listen to them. That means their full name, their occupation or role, how they know the defendant, how long they have known them, and how often they interact. A sentence or two explaining why they are in a position to speak about the defendant’s character is critical.
Should the Writer Mention the Criminal Charge?
Usually yes, at least briefly. A writer who seems unaware of the criminal charges loses credibility, so acknowledging the situation shows the letter was written with full knowledge of it. What the writer should not do is argue innocence when guilt has already been established, attack the victim, or criticize the prosecutor, the police, or the court. The letter is about the defendant’s character, not the case. Writers should stick to what they personally know.
What Specific Examples Should a Character Letter Include?
Useful examples show consistent, observable conduct, such as:
- Showing up for work reliably
- Caring for children or elderly relatives
- Helping coworkers or neighbors
- Volunteering
- Supporting family financially
- Completing treatment or counseling
- Maintaining sobriety
- Pursuing education
- Taking responsibility after the offense
Behavior sustained over a meaningful period matters more than a single good deed, because it shows the judge a pattern rather than a moment.
What Should You Avoid Putting in a Character Letter?
A poorly written letter can sometimes do more harm than good. Writers should avoid exaggerations, false statements, legal arguments, attacks on the alleged victim, and criticism of the judge or prosecutor. They should not minimize serious conduct, repeat rumors, or explain facts they did not personally witness.
Demands that the judge impose a specific sentence are generally a mistake unless defense counsel recommends including one. Every claim in the letter should be something the writer could stand behind if asked about it directly.
Sample Structure for a Character Letter
A character letter doesn’t need to be long or elaborate.
One page, organized simply, is usually enough:
- An introduction stating who the writer is and their relationship to the defendant
- The length and nature of that relationship
- Two or three specific examples that show the defendant’s character
- Discussion of observed changes, rehabilitation efforts, or responsibilities, if relevant
- A brief statement asking the court to consider this information at sentencing
- The writer’s name and contact information
The middle section is typically the most important, with the other parts just providing context.
Contact a Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyer at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for Legal Help
A criminal defense lawyer can help determine who should write character letters, what they should include, and how they fit into a broader sentencing strategy. An attorney can also review letters and ensure they are submitted properly.
If you or someone you care about is facing sentencing in Tucson, contact Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys today to discuss your case.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys
177 N Church Ave # 900, Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 510-0439
