Who should a character reference for court be addressed to?

In the Crown Court, address the reference to 'The Presiding Judge'. In the Magistrates' Court, address it to 'The Presiding Magistrate(s)'. If you are unsure which court the case is being heard in, ask the defendant's solicitor.

Should I mention the charges in the reference?

Yes. You should state that you are aware the defendant is before the court and, ideally, the general nature of the charges. Failing to acknowledge the charges may suggest naivety and reduce the weight the court gives to your reference.

Can I say I think the defendant is innocent?

No. You should never comment on the defendant's guilt or innocence. The purpose of a character reference is to inform the court about the defendant's character, not to act as an advocate. Determining guilt is the sole function of the court.

Can I be called to give evidence about my reference?

Yes. Although it is rare, the court or the prosecution has the right to call the writer of a character reference to give evidence. For this reason, everything in the reference must be true and something you would be willing to repeat under oath.

Does a character reference actually help in court?

Yes. The Sentencing Council guidelines allow courts to consider good character as a mitigating factor during sentencing. A strong character reference from a credible person can genuinely influence the severity of a sentence, particularly for first-time offenders.

Can the reference be handwritten?

A typed reference is preferable as it is easier for the court to read. However, a legible handwritten reference is also acceptable. Ensure it is signed by hand, dated and includes your full contact details.

Character Reference for Court Template

A character reference for court is a written statement submitted on behalf of a defendant in criminal or civil proceedings, providing the court with information about the defendant's character,.

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referee

Your Full Name (Referee)*

Your Address*

Your Occupation*

defendant

Defendant's Full Name*

Your Relationship to the Defendant*

How Long Have You Known the Defendant?*

Details

Character Assessment*

Awareness of Charges*

State that you are aware of the charges. Do NOT comment on guilt or innocence.

Court Type*

Date of Letter*

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[refereeName] [refereeAddress] [todayDate] {{#if courtType === 'crown'}}To The Presiding Judge[else]To The Presiding Magistrate(s){{/if}} CHARACTER REFERENCE — [defendantName] My name is [refereeName] and I am a [refereeOccupation]. I am writing to provide a character reference for [defendantName], whom I have known for [yearsKnown] as their [relationship]. I am aware that this letter will be placed before the court and I understand the importance of providing an honest and truthful account. [awarenessOfCharges] I would like to bring the following to the court's attention regarding [defendantName]'s character: [characterDetails] I respectfully ask the court to take this reference into consideration when determining the appropriate outcome. I confirm that the contents of this letter are true to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that it is an offence to make false statements to a court. Yours faithfully, ____________________________ [refereeName] [refereeOccupation] Date: [todayDate]

Important Notes

Legal Disclaimer

A character reference submitted to a court is a formal document and the writer must ensure all statements are honest and accurate. Making false or misleading statements to a court may constitute contempt of court under the Contempt of Court Act 1981, or perverting the course of justice (a common law offence carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment). Under the Sentencing Council guidelines, courts may take good character into account as a mitigating factor. The reference should not comment on the defendant's guilt or innocence. The writer should be aware that they may be called to give evidence about the contents of the reference. In the Magistrates' Court, references are typically read by the bench; in the Crown Court, they are read by the sentencing judge. The defence solicitor should review the reference before submission.

This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For complex legal matters, we recommend consulting a qualified solicitor.

Frequently Asked Questions

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