Character References

Why They Matter

When preparing for sentencing in federal court, character reference letters can be a powerful addition to your mitigation strategy. Judges already know what to expect from prosecutors and defense attorneys. The prosecutor will argue for a harsh sentence. The defense attorney will argue for leniency.

But what judges rarely hear is the authentic perspective of the people who know you best. A strong set of character reference letters helps the court see you as a human being, not just as a defendant in a criminal case.

Who Should Write Them

Not every letter carries the same weight. Family members are important, but judges expect them to be biased. Stronger letters often come from:

• Employers or business colleagues
  
  
• Mentors, teachers, or coaches
  
  
• Clergy or spiritual leaders
  
  
• Longtime friends or community members
  
  
• Anyone with a genuine, long-term relationship with you
  
  

Judges are not impressed by letters from influential people who barely know you. Authenticity matters more than status.

What the Letters Should Say

Effective character letters:

• Explain how the writer knows you and for how long
  
  
• Describe specific examples of your integrity, kindness, generosity, or service to others
  
  
• Emphasize consistency of good character traits over time
  
  
• Show support for your efforts to accept responsibility, make amends, and reconcile with society
  
  

Letters should not argue about the crime, criticize prosecutors, or claim the system was unfair. The purpose is to highlight your character, not to relitigate your case.

Tone and Structure

A strong character reference letter should be:

• Respectful and professional in tone
  
  
• Addressed to the judge formally
  
  
• One to one-and-a-half pages in length
  
  
• Honest and personal, not polished with “template” language
  
  

Here’s a simple structure to follow:

1. Introduce yourself and your relationship with the defendant.
   
   
2. Describe how you know them and provide specific examples of positive character.
   
   
3. Explain why you stand behind them through this process.
   
   
4. Express your willingness to support them as they move forward.
   
   
5. Close with respect and sincerity.
   
   

A Practical Example

Imagine a friend writing:

“I’ve known John for 15 years. When I struggled with health problems, John went out of his way to help, bringing groceries and checking on me. He didn’t have to do that, but his kindness reflects the type of person he is. I know he has made mistakes, but I also know him as honest, reliable, and caring. I will continue to support him on the other side of this journey.”

That letter doesn’t excuse the crime. It demonstrates character, compassion, and community value.

How to Use Them

Once collected, character letters should be:

• Shared with your defense attorney for inclusion in the sentencing memorandum
  
  
• Optionally provided to your probation officer during the pre-sentence investigation
  
  
• Kept as part of your long-term mitigation record
  
  

My Perspective

When I went through my own federal case, I didn’t understand the importance of character reference letters. Looking back, I see how they could have helped humanize me at sentencing and throughout my 26 years in prison. That’s why I emphasize them now as a vital part of a comprehensive mitigation strategy.

You don’t need to hire consultants for this. You can do it yourself with guidance from free resources. If you want additional help, our nonprofit partner offers free webinars at WhiteCollarAdvice.com/Nonprofit.

Key Takeaways

• Judges expect family support but value letters from people outside your immediate circle.
  
  
• Authenticity matters more than status or titles.
  
  
• Focus on positive character traits, not the crime.
  
  
• Keep letters respectful, honest, and specific.
  
  
• Character letters can influence not only sentencing but also your long-term record of mitigation.
  
  

Self-Directed Exercise

Log into your profile at PrisonProfessors.org and write:

1. A list of at least 5 people you could ask for character reference letters.
   
   
2. Notes on specific positive examples each person has witnessed about your character.
   
   
3. A draft request you could send, explaining what the letter should focus on.
   
   

Publishing these reflections creates a body of work that strengthens your mitigation strategy and demonstrates proactive preparation.

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