Google writing sentencing letter to the judge - you will get many examples. Do not address the crime or if he is innocent, guilty, etc. Write about his character and any good examples you can think of. It is just a character letter and as a mom it is tough to write. Ask family members or close friends if they will also write a letter to the judge.

Here are some important guidelines-----

Keep it short, certainly no longer than one page. Judges don't have time to read lengthy letters. Keep it short, concise, and to the point.

Contrition, contrition, contrition. True remorse is the key here. NEVER blame the victim in ANY way and assure the judge that your loved one is taking FULL responsibility for his or her crime. If you start telling how he received such a bad deal or that the justice system did not treat him right, you might as well not write one, as the letter will get thrown in the trash.

This is no time for anything but apologies and complete humility. It may be true that he received a less than favorable deal, but this is not time to mention anything like that. And, if you ever have to kiss a little *ss, this would be a good time to practice.

You have to more or less tell the judge what you think he wants to hear.

A lot of people have had good luck by humanizing the defendant. Just saying, "he is a good guy," will not cut it. Rather speak from your heart. Humanize your son.

You might relate something your son did once as an example of good character and caring for others. Maybe he worked as a volunteer at the Salvation Army, or he took care of a dying relative, or he gave out gifts and worked with needy children at Christmas. But you have to give the judge something he can relate to, something positive to show him that your son has worth.

You could also mention the positive steps your son is taking to help him with his problem. Remember, he DOES have a problem in the eyes of the judge.

Speak to him as a mother.

In the end, just ask him for leniency for your son.

Hope this helps. I am sure some of the other wise posters can add to my suggestions.

I sincerely wish you, your son, and your family the best in these trying circumstances.

rewdiazepma

Think of yourself as an artist. You have to paint the picture of your son. The judge has no idea who he is. It is up to you to tell him.

How would you describe him? Be positive. Give examples. Talk to his lawyer. He may have an outline to follow.

I hope the best for you and your son. It is never easy.