Writing a character reference letter for someone in prison can be a daunting task, but it can also be a way to help a loved one or friend who is incarcerated. In this article, we provide seven sample character reference letters for different situations that you can edit and use as needed. Whether you are writing for a family member or a friend, a well-crafted letter can help show the person’s positive qualities and encourage those who will be reading it to view the individual in a more favorable light.
A character reference letter is a written document that is provided to a court or parole board to help in the decision-making process for an individual who is in prison. The letter is written by someone who knows the individual and can attest to their character, values, and positive qualities. In some cases, judges may take these letters into consideration when determining whether to grant parole or early release.
If you are writing a character reference letter for someone in prison, it is essential to keep your letter concise, specific, and focused on the individual’s positive attributes. Avoid discussing the details of the individual’s crime or circumstances surrounding their incarceration, as this is not relevant to the purpose of the letter. Instead, focus on the individual’s positive qualities, such as their work ethic, compassion, honesty, and other strengths.
It is also crucial to provide specific examples of how the individual has demonstrated these qualities in their life. For example, if the individual has shown a consistent work ethic, provide specific examples of times when they have gone above and beyond in their job or other endeavors.
Readers can find examples of character reference letters below that they can edit and use as needed.
Sample Character Reference Letter for a Sibling
Dear Parole Board,
I am writing to express my strong support for my brother, John Doe, who is currently in your custody. John has always been a dedicated and hardworking person who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to his family, friends, and community.
Despite the challenges that he has faced in his life, John has always shown exceptional resilience and determination to overcome them. He is a kind, compassionate, and caring person who has always been there for his loved ones, even in times of difficulty.
I believe that John has the potential to be a productive member of society and would benefit greatly from early release. I am confident that he will continue to make positive contributions to his community and lead a productive and fulfilling life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Sample Character Reference Letter for a Friend
Dear Members of the Parole Board,
I am writing this letter in support of my friend, Sarah Brown, who is currently incarcerated. I have known Sarah for more than ten years, and during that time, I have always found her to be a kind-hearted, compassionate, and empathetic person who has consistently demonstrated her commitment to helping others.
Despite the challenges that she has faced in her life, Sarah has always shown remarkable resilience and determination to overcome them. She is a hard worker who has always been committed to her job and has shown exceptional dedication to her family and friends.
I strongly believe that Sarah has the potential to be a productive member of society and would benefit greatly from early release. I am confident that she will continue to make positive contributions to her community and lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Sample Character Reference Letter for a Parent
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my support for my parent, James Johnson, who is currently incarcerated. My father has always been a loving and supportive figure in my life, and I believe that he has the potential to make a positive contribution to society if given the opportunity.
Throughout his life, my father has consistently shown exceptional dedication and commitment to his family and friends. Despite the challenges that he has faced, he has always been a hard worker and has shown great resilience and determination in overcoming adversity.
I strongly believe that my father has the potential to be a productive member of society and would benefit greatly from early release. I am confident that he will continue to make positive contributions to his community and lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Johnson
Sample Character Reference Letter for a Former Employee
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my support for John Smith, who was previously employed at my business. During his time with us, John consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, exceptional dedication, and a commitment to excellence.
Despite the challenges that he has faced in his life, John has shown remarkable resilience and determination to overcome them. He is a kind, compassionate, and caring person who has always been there for his coworkers and clients, even in times of difficulty.
I believe that John has the potential to be a productive member of society and would benefit greatly from early release. I am confident that he will continue to make positive contributions to his community and lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Sample Character Reference Letter for a Volunteer
Dear Parole Board Members,
I am writing to express my support for Sarah Brown, who has volunteered with our organization for the past year. Sarah is a kind, compassionate, and dedicated individual who has consistently demonstrated her commitment to helping others.
Despite the challenges that she has faced in her life, Sarah has shown remarkable resilience and determination to overcome them. She is a hard worker who has always been committed to her volunteer work and has shown exceptional dedication to our organization and the people we serve.
I strongly believe that Sarah has the potential to be a productive member of society and would benefit greatly from early release. I am confident that she will continue to make positive contributions to her community and lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Sample Character Reference Letter for a Teacher
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my support for John Doe, who was a student in my class for several years. John is a kind, compassionate, and dedicated individual who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to his education and his community.
Despite the challenges that he has faced in his life, John has shown remarkable resilience and determination to overcome them. He is a hard worker who has always been committed to his studies and has shown great dedication to his family and friends.
I believe that John has the potential to be a productive member of society and would benefit greatly from early release. I am confident that he will continue to make positive contributions to his community and lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter for Someone in Prison
1. Keep the letter focused on the individual’s positive attributes and avoid discussing the details of their crime or circumstances surrounding their incarceration.
2. Provide specific examples of how the individual has demonstrated their positive qualities in their life.
3. Use a formal tone and provide clear and concise language.
4. Make sure to include your contact information in case the reader needs to follow up with you.
5. Be honest and genuine in your letter and avoid exaggerating or embellishing the individual’s qualities or accomplishments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a character reference letter for someone in prison?
A character reference letter for someone in prison should focus on the individual’s positive attributes and provide specific examples of how they have demonstrated these qualities in their life. It is important to avoid discussing the details of their crime or circumstances surrounding their incarceration.
Who can write a character reference letter for someone in prison?
Anyone who knows the individual and can attest to their character, values, and positive qualities can write a character reference letter for someone in prison. This can include family members, friends, coworkers, employers, teachers, or others who have a relationship with the individual.
How long should a character reference letter be?
A character reference letter for someone in prison should be concise and focused on the individual’s positive attributes. Generally, the letter should be no longer than one to two pages, or 40 to 50 sentences.
What should I avoid in a character reference letter for someone in prison?
It is important to avoid discussing the details of the individual’s crime or circumstances surrounding their incarceration in a character reference letter for someone in prison. It is also important to avoid exaggerating or embellishing the individual’s qualities or accomplishments and to be honest and genuine in your letter.
How should I address the letter?
You should address the letter to the appropriate judge or parole board members who will be reading the letter. You can find this information by contacting the prison or court where the individual is incarcerated.
Is it necessary to provide contact information in the letter?
Yes, it is important to provide your contact information in case the reader needs to follow up with you or verify the information in the letter.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference letter for someone in prison can be a way to help a loved one or friend who is incarcerated. By providing specific examples of the individual’s positive qualities, you can help show them in a more favorable light and encourage those who will be reading the letter to view them as a productive member of society who has the potential to make a positive contribution to their community.