When someone is facing sentencing before the criminal court, a character reference may be helpful in swaying the magistrate to impose a lighter sentence. Here are some on how to write an effective character reference. Owen Hodge Lawyers knows the criminal laws and sentencing guidelines used by local courts and can provide advice and assistance in helping with the drafting of a character reference. Give us a call today on 1800 770 780 or contact us via ohl@owenhodge.com.au to learn more about how we can help you with your involvement in the criminal justice system.

1. How to Write an Effective Character Reference
Provide specific stories
and details used to
illustrate the points
you are making
Detail difficulties
you are aware the
offender will face if he
is given a specific
sentence.
Do not suggest
a penalty to be
imposed.
Do not disparage
the victim of
criticize the law
Addressyour
characterreference
to the magistrate of
the local court
Providedetails
aboutyourrelationship
tothepersonyouarewriting
thecharacterreferencefor
Make clear you
are aware of the
circumstances of
the offenses
Do not make
false statements
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What is a character reference?
When someone is facing sentencing before the criminal court, a character reference may be helpful in swaying the magistrate to
impose a lighter sentence. While there is some debate about whether or not a character reference will make a substantial difference
in a magistrate’s sentencing decisions, it is universally recognized that a poorly written character reference will not be helpful to the
offender’s cause.
Owen Hodge Lawyers knows the criminal laws and sentencing guidelines used by local courts and can provide advice
and assistance in helping with the drafting of a character reference. Give us a call today on 1800 770 780 or contact us
via ohl@owenhodge.com.au to learn more about how we can help you with your involvement in the criminal justice system.
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