Families of Prisoners Support Group
This community is dedicated to families that have been disrupted by prison. Having a loved one incarcerated or having been incarcerated comes with its own unique challenges that require support and understanding. Join the group to find others who know what you're going through, and to seek advice or share your experience.
I am new to this group and have finally decided to ask advice for something that has been weighing on my mind. The past few months have been extremely rocky emotionally. My father's trial is set to start on my child's birthday, which is just adding more pain to the situation.
My question is this: Does anyone here have advice or experience with character letters? The public defender has asked that I, along with other family members and friends, write two character letters. One to the prosecutor and one to the judge. The PD would like us to tailor the letters to the recipient. The letter to the prosecutor is discussing the kind of person my father is and reasons why he is a benefit to society, while also discussing my experience with his mental illness. The letter to the judge is more about my father as a person, however basically the same information.
I have been avoiding this letter writing for months. I don't even know where to start. I stare at the computer screen and just want to cry.
My question is this: Does anyone here have advice or experience with character letters? The public defender has asked that I, along with other family members and friends, write two character letters. One to the prosecutor and one to the judge. The PD would like us to tailor the letters to the recipient. The letter to the prosecutor is discussing the kind of person my father is and reasons why he is a benefit to society, while also discussing my experience with his mental illness. The letter to the judge is more about my father as a person, however basically the same information.
I have been avoiding this letter writing for months. I don't even know where to start. I stare at the computer screen and just want to cry.
Prosecutor's and judges only see who they are through what the charges state. Not the true picture of who they really are. Emphasize his good qualities, if he has a job to go back to, his hobbies, how much his grandkids love him, etc. Paint a picture of the man you know, for them to know. Not just a criminal as they usually see.
I had a judge once who was a very kind man. When I got to talk to him and say what I wanted to say, I pointed out a few things that he didn't know about what it is like to be in prison. He said he never knew ANYTHING after they went through his court. I said carefully, " maybe you should know" . He said, " You are right". The other day, where my fiance is, a whole bunch of judges were actually touring his place. He was surprised. Maybe I am not. MAYBE this judge that listened to me brought it up to the people that matter and they wanted to see what really happens in prison's, how the inmates are to each other, how the inmates are treated, etc.
If your dad really did the crime he was charged with, don't make it sound like you don't believe it. If it is irrefutable. Just point out that you have seen changes in him since this all happened, how sorry he is.
Point out the ways you will deal with his mental health issues and what has happened in the past that those issues caused him. Point out that you will make sure he gets to counseling and stays on med's or whatever is needed. That there will be people to help him. And if you need help with that, ask them to lead you to where he can get help.
If he did really do what he is charged with, don't act like you don't believe it, don't put down the justice system. And point out your good points, your accomplishments, etc. If you have went to college, throw that in. They might in their minds listen to you better. Hate to say it but they are judgmental and opinionated.
Tell them you have talked to your father about his situation and told him what he has to do to get help and not do whatever he did again. Tell them he IS remorseful.
That's my ideas. I have had a son and a fiance in prison more than a few times. Been there, done that. It's up for grabs if those letters will help or not, but that depends on the judge and prosecutor. Generally, prosecutor's are out to win at any cost, but SOME judges are more human.
I hope these letters help you and him.
He is our " angel" with knowledge, experience and advice on here. He is a good one to get the right answers from.
( Yes REW, I am singing your praises again)