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DUI Character Reference Letter from Family or Friend Template
Write a clear, respectful DUI character reference letter from a family member or friend to help the court understand the person behind the case.
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DUI Character Reference Letter from Family or Friend Template
[Your Full Name]
[Your Street Address]
[City, State/Province, ZIP/Postal Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Honorable [Judge’s Full Name]
[Name of Court]
[Street Address]
[City, State/Province, ZIP/Postal Code]
1. Introduction and Relationship
Re: Character Reference Letter for [Defendant’s Full Name] – DUI Case [Case Number]
Dear Judge [Judge’s Last Name],
My name is [Your Full Name], and I am [your relationship to the defendant, e.g., “the mother of,” “the older brother of,” “a close family friend of,” “the long-time partner of”] [Defendant’s Full Name]. I have known [him/her/them] for approximately [number] years. I am writing this letter to provide a character reference for [Defendant’s Name] in connection with [his/her/their] DUI case.
2. How You Know the Person and General Character
Over the time I have known [Defendant’s Name], I have come to see [him/her/them] as a [brief description: e.g., “hard-working and caring parent,” “reliable employee,” “supportive family member,” “dedicated student,” etc.].
Some examples of [his/her/their] character include:
[Example: “[Defendant’s Name] regularly helps care for family members, including [children/parents], by….”]
[Example: “[He/She/They] has maintained steady employment at [Employer] as a [Job Title] and is known for being punctual and dependable.”]
[Example: “In our community, [Defendant’s Name] has volunteered for [organization or activity] and has shown a genuine desire to help others.”]
From my experience, [Defendant’s Name] is someone who [highlight key traits: “takes responsibilities seriously,” “is honest and respectful,” “is committed to family and work obligations,” etc.].
3. Awareness of the DUI Incident and Its Impact
I am aware that [Defendant’s Name] was charged with driving under the influence (DUI) on [Date of Incident]. I understand that this is a serious matter and that driving under the influence can have dangerous consequences.
Since the incident, I have observed that [Defendant’s Name] has been [describe reactions: “deeply remorseful,” “embarrassed,” “ashamed,” “very worried about the impact on family, work, and future opportunities,” etc.]. [He/She/They] has openly acknowledged the mistake and spoken about how seriously [he/she/they] takes this situation.
4. Positive Changes and Steps Taken Since the DUI
Since the DUI incident, I have seen [Defendant’s Name] take meaningful steps to address what happened and to reduce the risk of anything like this occurring again, including:
[Example: “Attending DUI education classes or counseling sessions and engaging sincerely in the process.”]
[Example: “Avoiding driving after any alcohol use and planning transportation in advance when going out.”]
[Example: “Reducing or abstaining from alcohol use and making healthier lifestyle choices.”]
[Example: “Continuing to fulfill work and family responsibilities despite the stress of the case.”]
From my perspective, these actions show that [Defendant’s Name] understands the seriousness of the DUI and is trying to learn from this experience rather than dismiss it.
5. Opinion of Character and Request to the Court
Based on my long-term relationship with [Defendant’s Name], I believe that this DUI incident does not reflect who [he/she/they] is as a person overall. In my experience, [he/she/they] is generally [describe: “responsible,” “caring,” “trustworthy,” “devoted to family,” “dedicated to work,” etc.], and I have not known [him/her/them] to be reckless or indifferent to the safety of others.
I respectfully ask the Court to take [Defendant’s Name]’s character, responsibilities, and efforts to change into consideration when determining the outcome of this case. I understand that there must be consequences for what happened, but I hope that the Court will also recognize [his/her/their] remorse and potential to continue being a positive, law-abiding member of the community.
6. Willingness to Support
I will continue to support [Defendant’s Name] by [describe how you will help: “encouraging responsible decisions,” “assisting with transportation when needed,” “supporting ongoing treatment or counseling,” etc.]. I believe that with continued guidance and support, [he/she/they] will move forward from this incident in a positive way.
7. Closing and Contact Information
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter and consider my perspective on [Defendant’s Name]’s character. If the Court has any questions or needs additional information, I am willing to be contacted at [phone number] or [email address].
Respectfully,
[Your Signature, if printed]
[Your Full Name]
[Date]
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DUI Character Reference Letter from Family or Friend Template
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For quick answers, scroll below to see the FAQ.
Click below for detailed info on the template.
For quick answers, scroll below to see the FAQ.
DUI CHARACTER REFERENCE LETTER FROM FAMILY OR FRIEND TEMPLATE FAQ
What is a DUI character reference letter from a family member or friend?
A DUI character reference letter from a family member or friend is a written statement that describes the defendant’s character, behavior, and positive qualities to the court. It provides a personal view of who the person is outside of the DUI incident, including their responsibilities, community involvement, and any changes they have made since the offense. Judges may consider these letters when evaluating the person’s character and potential for future responsible behavior.
How do I write a strong DUI character reference letter to a judge?
To write a strong DUI character reference letter to a judge, clearly introduce yourself, explain how long and in what capacity you have known the person, and describe specific examples of their positive character traits (such as honesty, reliability, or dedication to family). Acknowledge that you are aware of the DUI charge or conviction, briefly mention how the incident has affected them, and explain why you believe this behavior is out of character or has led to real change. Keep the tone respectful, truthful, and focused on concrete examples instead of general statements.
What should I include in a DUI character reference letter as a family member or friend?
A helpful DUI character reference letter usually includes: your full name and contact information, your relationship to the person (spouse, parent, sibling, long-time friend, etc.), how long you have known them, specific positive qualities and responsibilities they handle (work, parenting, caregiving, community service), your observations of their reaction to the DUI incident, and any positive steps you have seen them take since (treatment, counseling, lifestyle changes, safer driving habits). You may also respectfully ask the court to take their character and efforts into account at sentencing.
Who can write a character reference letter for a DUI case?
Character reference letters for a DUI case can be written by close family members (spouse, partner, parent, grandparent, sibling, adult child) and trusted friends who know the person well. Sometimes employers, coworkers, teachers, coaches, or community leaders also write letters. The most effective letters usually come from people who have known the individual for a significant period and can give specific, real-life examples rather than vague praise. Always follow your attorney’s guidance on who should write letters in your situation.
How long should a DUI character reference letter be?
Most DUI character reference letters are one to two pages long. They should be long enough to explain who you are, how you know the person, and what you have observed about their character and response to the DUI incident — but not so long that they become repetitive. Quality and sincerity are more important than length. Focus on clear, specific examples and a respectful, honest tone.
Can AI Lawyer help me write a DUI character reference letter for a family member or friend?
Yes. AI Lawyer can help you turn your thoughts and notes into a clear DUI character reference letter by suggesting wording, organizing your ideas, and making the letter easy to read. You provide the real facts, relationship details, and examples, and AI Lawyer helps structure and polish them. For any legal strategy questions — such as how many letters to submit, who should write them, or when to file them — you should still rely on advice from a licensed DUI attorney.
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