How to Write a Court Letter of Recommendation
- 1). Determine if you should write the letter. Often times, the defendant himself will ask you to write a letter of recommendation on his behalf. Before agreeing to write it, determine how well you know the person and if you can provide a positive recommendation for him. If you agree to write the letter, you are agreeing to vouch for the person's character.
- 2). Address the letter. This letter should be addressed to the courthouse. Include the judge's name if you know it, and include your name and contact information at the top of the letter. Place the date below your name as well.
- 3). Describe yourself in the first paragraph. The court bases a letter of recommendation by the writer's credibility. In order to appear credible to the judge and court, list your qualifications and achievements. Describe how you know the defendant, your relationship to him and the amount of time you have known him. List any additional details about yourself that will build your credibility and make the court believe you are a reliable source.
- 4). Describe the defendant. Using the next two to four paragraphs, describe the positive things you know about the defendant. Include details that describe his work ethics, habits and history as well as personal details. Use adjectives to describe his character traits and values in life. Be completely honest when writing this recommendation letter, but avoid saying anything that could appear negative.
- 5). Include a story. If you have a good, short story that demonstrates a quality virtue about the person, tell it to the court in this letter.
- 6). Summarize the defendant. In the last paragraph, offer an overall assessment of the person by summarizing his character. Continue the paragraph by giving your opinion regarding whatever it is that you highly recommend for this person. Thank the court for reading and considering your thoughts and opinions.
- 7). Close the letter. End the letter by writing "Sincerely" followed by your name.
Source...