Character References

How to help someone that is going to court

A written reference about your good character can help you in a sentencing matter, which might occur on the first occasion if you are pleading guilty, in the court.

It is a good idea to obtain one or more references from people who "are of good reputation" when appearing before a Magistrate or Judge. This means that they should not have a criminal record or a bad reputation. These people can be family, friends or workmates or bosses.

Each reference should be addressed either " To the Presiding Magistrate " or " To the Presiding Judge "

The letter should be

• Neatly written or typed
• Signed with the name of the person printed underneath with their address and occupation
• Dated

A reference should include the following information

• A statement from the person writing the reference that s/he is aware of the charges before the court
• How long the person has known you
• How the person knows you (keep it short eg. as an employer, workmate priest teacher)
• The person's opinion of your character
• Anything which might help the court concerning your charges (eg. your general honesty if it is a stealing charge; your general driving ability if it is a drink driving charge)

It will help your solicitor if you can provide two signed copies , one will be the original reference to be handed up to the court and a copy for your solicitor to keep on file. If you are representing yourself, keep one and hand one up to the court.

All information on this page was obtained from a Legal Aid brochure which we have available at our office.