- Show the defendant as a generally good person.
- Highlight positive traits like honesty, responsibility, and kindness.
- Demonstrate community involvement and positive relationships.
- People who know the defendant well and can speak to their character.
- Individuals with a good standing in the community (e.g., employers, teachers, religious leaders, long-time friends).
- Someone who can write with sincerity and detail.
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Relationship to Defendant | How long and in what capacity the writer knows the defendant. |
| Specific Examples | Anecdotes that illustrate positive character traits. |
| Impact on Community/Others | How the defendant positively affects those around them. |
| Absence of Criminal Tendencies | Statements that the alleged actions are out of character. |