All I know is from what lawyers have posted and a lot has to do with the case and circumstances. The basics I've seen though are to be as supportive of him as possible while realizing what he did was wrong.

Our attorney didn't want me to speak, because he was afraid I'd be too emotional and tell him my son was innocent.. which would have blown his plea.

If you do, and your son is taking a plea of guilty you might apologize for what he did.. which is what they want to hear.. Maybe tell him what a great support system your son has and that you'll always be there for him. If your son has never been in trouble before, you could mention that.

Don't go too much into detail and keep it short. That's what our attorney told me before he decided I wasn't to speak.

At my sentencing, My father was given a chance to speak also. We were not expecting that all. Basically for my experience I think the judge is looking for your son's character and how this case has impact your family. My father talked a little about how I was growing up and how my family is supportive of me getting through this difficult time in my life. I also was given a chance to speak by the judge which I was not prepared for.

I do agree with Frog and Nak. Showing that you son does understand what he did was wrong is very important. Same with showing that he has a support system to better himself.

Contrition, contrition, contrition. You cannot speak for your son, but you have to let the judge know that your son, you, and your entire family are extremely sorry and saddened that your son chose to take this road and commit a crime. Mention that your entire family is heartbroken for the victim.

Also mention that you realize your son committed a terrible crime---don't mention that he just made a mistake; leave mistake out of it. Your son committed a crime and you understand the need for punishment.

Don't---under any circumstances----even HINT---hint----that such and such caused your son to do this. Judges don't want to hear of any reasons or excuses. They have heard them all.

You have to also show compassion for the victim in some way.

You might tell the judge the GOOD qualities your son has and even mention a specific instance in which he did something very kind. Mention his future and his potential for good.

And last, just ask the judge to take all these factors in consideration and ask the court to give some leniency for your son.

Keep it short, keep it concise, and TALK FROM YOUR HEART. You might stammer or stumble up there, but that is OK----you are his mom and you are human. The last thing the judge wants to hear is you reciting some memorized script up there.

FROM THE HEART---AND CONTRITION.

rewdiazepam

Rew, thanks for posting.. Yes, as a mom I'm a bit too sympathetic. You are spot on. I couldn't have put it better.

Thanks for the advice I have been trying to write what I want say. I have till August I hope to find the words to express how hard this has affected our family and how much my son regrets what he did. It was a CP crime.
I just hope I don't break down in tears, I think that is what I'm most afraid of. I have never been in a courtroom before, so when he went before the Judge to do his quilty plea. I went so I could see what the Judge looked like and what courtroom looked like. It is intimidating to say the least, but my husband will there and some other family members and my son's friend who will also speak on his behalf.