#Character witness letter professional

This letter is being written by the undersigned on behalf of Kenneth Jones who is being tried for larceny charges.

Re: Character reference for Kenneth Jones × Do not make sweeping statements about the nature in which the court should behave. × Avoid making any judgment about either the law in place or the plaintiff. It is a criminal offense to mislead the court. × Do not lie about any statements that you make. × Do not make a suggestion about the penalty that should be given. ✓ Indicate that you are aware of the charges against the person. ✓ Mention how long you have known the person.

#Character witness letter professional

✓ Include your professional details (designation). ✓ Print the letter on an official letterhead (if possible).

✓ Speak to the defendant’s lawyer before writing the letter. The letter that is written is extremely important as it can sometimes shift the entire balance and change a verdict completely. It is also helpful if the letter is written by someone who has known the defendant for some time. The letter need not be from a person who is ‘important’ per se but it needs to be from someone who is a good character witness and has something positive to say about the defendant. It helps emphasize those qualities of the accused that the defendant’s lawyer is trying to showcase in court. A character reference letter can occasionally be one of the most crucial documents presented in favor of a defendant.