Character Reference Repeat Offender

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing in reference to Case # {case number}, which involves {Name}, who is being charged with a {offense}.

I have known {Name} for {length of time}, and we are {coworkers, friends, etc.}. This is not the first time {he/she} has been charged with this offense. While I know that being a repeat offender makes the charge more serious, it is also the reason I am writing in {Name}'s defense.

When {Name} was the charged the first time, it was because {he/she} was being {careless, reckless, thoughtless, etc.} However, that incident opened {his/her} eyes to {his/her} {alcoholism, destructive behavior, temper}. Since that time, {he/she} has been {starting therapy, attending AA meetings, etc.}

I know that {Name} is a kind, caring individual, and now that {he/she} has acknowledged the problem I can assure you that recovery has begun. {Name} is working very hard and I hope you understand that during a difficult time, especially in the early stages of recovery, people slip up and make mistakes. {Name} has acknowledged that mistake and is making great progress. Recently, I witnessed {him/her} resist the impulse to {drink/yell/get in a fight}.

I have seen {his/her} progress over the last {amount of time} and I am confident that {he/she} can change {his/her} behavior with continued hard work, and without the intervention of jail time. Please keep this in mind when you consider the charges.

Thank you,

{Sender}

Index of Character Reference Letter Examples