How to Write a Character Reference Letter for Court
A magistrate or judge will read the character reference before deciding what penalty to impose. The reference is most helpful when it is written by someone who has known the person for a long time or has had regular contact with them. The writer should also be of good character and not have a serious criminal record.
What to Include in the Reference
Tone of the Reference
The reference should be formal, respectful, and honest. It should clearly explain your relationship with the person and your genuine opinion of their character.
Contents of the Reference
Judges usually look for the following types of information. Only include details you personally know to be true.
Who You Are
- Introduce yourself.
- State your occupation.
- Include any relevant qualifications or community roles.
Your Relationship to the Person
- Explain how you know the person.
- State how long you have known them.
- Mention how often you see or speak with them.
Your Knowledge of the Charges
- Indicate whether the person has discussed the charges with you.
- Describe how they feel about what happened.
- Mention whether they have expressed remorse.
- Note any steps they have taken, such as:
- Attending counselling
- Paying for damages
- Apologizing to the victim
Also include any consequences they have already faced, such as:
- Losing their job
- Damage to their reputation
- Feelings of shame within their community or family
Your Knowledge of Their Life Circumstances
- Describe their background.
- Mention any hardships or personal challenges.
- Note any issues that may have contributed to the offence, such as:
- Financial stress
- Substance use
- Mental health challenges
Explain any steps they are taking to address these issues.
Your Opinion of Their Character
- Describe their general character and reputation.
- Explain whether the offence is out of character.
- Mention any community involvement, volunteer work, or achievements.
- If you know about prior convictions, explain whether they affect your opinion.
How to Format the Reference
- Write the reference in a letter format.
- Type the letter if possible.
- Use letterhead if available.
Important Tips
- Put the date at the top of the letter.
- Address it correctly:
- Ontario Court of Justice: “The Presiding Justice of the Peace” or “The Presiding Judge”
- Superior Court of Justice: “The Presiding Judge”
- Begin the letter with “Your Honour.”
- Sign the reference at the end.
Where to Send the Reference
- Give the letter to the person facing the charges well before the court date, or
- Send it directly to their lawyer.
- You may also contact the lawyer to discuss the reference if needed.
Example Character Reference
14 February 2019
The Presiding Judge
Your Honour,
Who I am
My name is Peter Johnson of 1 Temple Court, Keilor Park. I am an architect.
My relationship to the person charged
I have known Jane Citizen of 123 Alphabet Street, South Melbourne, for five years. We previously worked together.
My knowledge of the charges
I understand that Jane must attend court regarding a theft charge. She is very upset about the situation, and I believe she is genuinely sorry for what happened.
My knowledge of her circumstances
She has been under significant stress due to her mother’s battle with cancer. Despite this charge, I would still trust Jane with my money and belongings.
My opinion of her character
In all the time I have known her, Jane has been a decent, hardworking, and trustworthy person. I believe this incident was out of character and a one-time mistake.
Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
Peter Johnson