If you have been asked to write a character reference letter for someone who has received a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge, it is important to know what to include in the letter. Writing a character reference letter can be a valuable tool in helping the defendant receive a fair sentence. In this article, we will provide tips, examples, and frequently asked questions about writing a character reference letter for a DUI charge.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter DUI
When writing a character reference letter for a DUI charge, keep in mind the following tips:
- Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the defendant.
- Provide specific examples of the defendant’s good character traits.
- Explain how the defendant’s actions on the day of the DUI charge are not consistent with their character.
- Express confidence in the defendant’s ability to learn from their mistake and become a better person.
- Be honest and genuine in your writing.
- Proofread the letter for any errors before submitting it.
Examples of Character Reference Letter DUI
Letter for DUI First Offense
Dear Judge,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name], who was charged with a DUI offense. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [number of years] years in a professional capacity as a colleague at [Company Name].
[Defendant’s Name] has always been an upstanding member of our team and I have never seen [him/her] engage in any behavior that is contrary to what we expect of our employees. [He/She] has shown great dedication to [his/her] work and is well-respected among [his/her] peers.
I was surprised to hear of the DUI charge against [Defendant’s Name] as this is not consistent with [his/her] character. I believe that [he/she] has learned from this experience and will take steps to ensure that it never happens again.
Thank you for considering my letter as part of the sentencing process.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
Letter for DUI Second Offense
Dear Judge,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name], who was charged with a second DUI offense. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [number of years] years as a close friend and neighbor.
While [Defendant’s Name] has made a mistake by driving under the influence, I can attest to [his/her] good character. [He/She] is a hardworking individual who has always been there to lend a helping hand to those in need. [He/She] is a responsible parent and a role model to [his/her] children.
I am confident that [Defendant’s Name] is taking the necessary steps to address [his/her] alcohol use and will not let this happen again. Please take [his/her] character and circumstances into account when determining [his/her] sentence.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for DUI Sentencing Hearing
Dear Judge,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name], who is appearing before you for sentencing on a DUI charge. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [number of years] years as a close friend.
Throughout our friendship, I have seen [Defendant’s Name] demonstrate admirable qualities such as honesty, responsibility, and compassion. [He/She] is a devoted spouse and parent, an active member of the community, and a hard-working professional.
I understand the seriousness of the charges against [Defendant’s Name] and believe that [he/she] has taken full responsibility for [his/her] actions. I ask that you consider [his/her] character and circumstances when determining an appropriate sentence.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
Letter for DUI Probation
Dear Probation Officer,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name], who is under probation for a DUI offense. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [number of years] years as a close friend and colleague.
[Defendant’s Name] is a responsible and dependable individual who takes [his/her] obligations seriously. [He/She] has a strong work ethic and has always been there to support [his/her] family and friends.
I understand the seriousness of the offense that [Defendant’s Name] has committed, but I believe that [he/she] is taking the necessary steps to address [his/her] alcohol use and prevent future incidents. Please take [his/her] character and circumstances into account when determining the terms of [his/her] probation.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for DUI Pre-Sentencing
Dear Judge,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name], who is due to appear before you for a pre-sentencing hearing on a DUI charge. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [number of years] years as a close friend and neighbor.
[Defendant’s Name] is an honest, reliable, and hardworking individual who has always been there to support [his/her] family and friends. [He/She] has never been in trouble with the law before and I believe that this incident is out of character for [him/her].
I understand the seriousness of the charges and the impact that [Defendant’s Name]’s actions have had on [his/her] life and those around [him/her]. I hope that you will take [his/her] character and circumstances into account when determining a fair and appropriate sentence.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for DUI Dismissal
Dear District Attorney,
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name], who is facing charges of DUI. I have known [Defendant’s Name] for [number of years] years as a colleague at [Company Name].
[Defendant’s Name] is a dedicated and hardworking professional who has always shown great integrity and responsibility. I have never seen [him/her] engage in any behavior that would suggest [he/she] is capable of committing a crime such as DUI.
I understand that the charges against [Defendant’s Name] are serious, but I ask that you consider [his/her] character and circumstances when making your decision. I believe that [Defendant’s Name] is not guilty of the charges and that justice would be best served by dismissing the case.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
Frequently Asked Questions about Character Reference Letter DUI
Can I write a character reference letter for someone who I am related to?
Yes, you can write a character reference letter for someone who you are related to. However, you should disclose your relationship in the letter and explain how you have observed the defendant’s character traits in a non-familial setting.
What should I include in the greeting of the letter?
The greeting of the letter should be formal and address the judge or probation officer by their proper title. For example, “Dear Judge [Last Name]” or “Dear Probation Officer [Last Name]”.
Can I use bullet points to list the defendant’s character traits?
No, you should not use bullet points to list the defendant’s character traits. Instead, you should provide specific examples and anecdotes that illustrate the defendant’s character traits in action.
What should I include in the complimentary close of the letter?
The complimentary close of the letter should be formal and respectful. Examples of appropriate closes include “Sincerely”, “Respectfully submitted”, or “Yours truly”.
Can I submit my character reference letter electronically?
It depends on the court’s or probation officer’s policy. Some may accept electronic submissions while others may require a hard copy of the letter.
Can I request to read the defendant’s presentencing report before writing the letter?
No, you cannot request to read the defendant’s presentencing report before writing the letter. The presentencing report is confidential and is only seen by the judge and probation officer.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference letter for a DUI charge can be a powerful tool in helping the defendant receive a fair sentence. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can write a effective and persuasive letter that highlights the defendant’s good character traits and expresses confidence in their ability to learn from their mistakes.