When an individual is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), it can have a significant impact on their life. Getting a job, renting an apartment, or even getting a loan can be difficult. One way to help someone in this situation is by writing a DUI letter of reference character. This letter can help show that the individual is taking steps to improve their life and can be trusted. If you need to write this type of letter, here are some tips to help you get started.
Tips for Writing a DUI Letter of Reference Character
Before you begin writing a DUI letter of reference character, there are some things you should keep in mind:
- Be honest: It’s important to be honest in your letter. Don’t exaggerate or make things up.
- Focus on the present: Talk about the person’s current situation and the steps they are taking to improve their life.
- Use specific examples: Provide specific examples of the person’s character and actions that demonstrate their trustworthiness.
- Keep it brief: The letter should be no more than one page.
- Offer to answer questions: Let the recipient know that you are available to answer any questions they may have.
Once you have a general idea of what you want to include in your letter, you can use examples to help guide you. Here are seven examples of DUI letters of reference character that you can edit as needed:
Letter for Employment
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] for the [Job Title] position. Although [Name] made a mistake in the past by getting a DUI, they have taken responsibility for their actions and have made significant changes in their life.
[Name] has completed a DUI education program and has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly. They have shown a commitment to improving their life and making better choices. During this time, I have seen [Name] demonstrate honesty, reliability, and a strong work ethic. I believe that they would make a valuable addition to your team.
If you have any questions about [Name] or their character, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for Housing
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] as a tenant. Although [Name] has a DUI on their record, they have taken responsibility for their actions and have made significant changes in their life.
[Name] has completed a DUI education program and has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly. They have shown a commitment to improving their life and making better choices. During this time, I have seen [Name] demonstrate honesty, reliability, and responsibility. I believe that they would make a responsible and trustworthy tenant.
If you have any questions about [Name] or their character, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for Child Custody
Dear [Judge’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] as a responsible and loving parent. Although [Name] has a DUI on their record, they have taken responsibility for their actions and have made significant changes in their life.
[Name] has completed a DUI education program and has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly. They have shown a commitment to improving their life and making better choices. During this time, I have seen [Name] demonstrate honesty, reliability, and a strong commitment to their children. I believe that they would make an excellent parent.
If you have any questions about [Name] or their character, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for Student
Dear [Admissions Committee’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] for admission to your university. Although [Name] has a DUI on their record, they have taken responsibility for their actions and have made significant changes in their life.
[Name] has completed a DUI education program and has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly. They have shown a commitment to improving their life and making better choices. During this time, I have seen [Name] demonstrate honesty, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. I believe that they would be a valuable addition to your university.
If you have any questions about [Name] or their character, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for Volunteer Work
Dear [Organization’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] as a volunteer. Although [Name] has a DUI on their record, they have taken responsibility for their actions and have made significant changes in their life.
[Name] has completed a DUI education program and has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly. They have shown a commitment to improving their life and making better choices. During this time, I have seen [Name] demonstrate honesty, reliability, and a strong desire to help others. I believe that they would make an excellent volunteer.
If you have any questions about [Name] or their character, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for Loan
Dear [Loan Officer’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] for a loan. Although [Name] has a DUI on their record, they have taken responsibility for their actions and have made significant changes in their life.
[Name] has completed a DUI education program and has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly. They have shown a commitment to improving their life and making better choices. During this time, I have seen [Name] demonstrate honesty, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. I believe that they would be a responsible borrower.
If you have any questions about [Name] or their character, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter for Professional License
Dear [Licensing Board’s Name],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Name] for a professional license. Although [Name] has a DUI on their record, they have taken responsibility for their actions and have made significant changes in their life.
[Name] has completed a DUI education program and has been attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly. They have shown a commitment to improving their life and making better choices. During this time, I have seen [Name] demonstrate honesty, reliability, and a strong work ethic. I believe that they would be an asset to their profession.
If you have any questions about [Name] or their character, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a DUI letter of reference character help someone get a job?
Yes, a DUI letter of reference character can help demonstrate to an employer that the person is taking responsibility for their actions and is making positive changes in their life. It can show that the person is trustworthy and reliable.
What should I include in a DUI letter of reference character?
You should include specific examples of the person’s character and actions that demonstrate their trustworthiness. You should also mention any steps the person has taken to improve their life, such as completing a DUI education program or attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
Who should I address the letter to?
You should address the letter to the person who will be reviewing it. This could be a hiring manager, landlord, judge, admissions committee, loan officer, or licensing board.
How long should the letter be?
The letter should be no more than one page.
How can I be sure that my letter will be taken seriously?
Be honest and provide specific examples of the person’s character and actions. Offer to answer any questions the recipient may have. Keep the tone professional and positive.
Can I edit the examples provided?
Yes, you can edit the examples as needed to fit your specific situation.
What if I have additional questions?
If you have additional questions, you can reach out to an attorney or other legal professional for guidance.
Conclusion
Writing a DUI letter of reference character can be a valuable way to help someone who has made a mistake. By following these tips and using the examples provided, you can create a letter that demonstrates the person’s character and trustworthiness. Remember to be honest, provide specific examples, and keep the letter brief. With your help, the person can move forward with their life and make positive changes.