Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Is it a good idea to write a judge a letter explaining ones self/actions while also pleading for a fair and just amount of leniency/mercy? If so, how does one go about taking responsibility for ones actions without further incriminating ones self?


Asked on 1/17/12, 5:54 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Nicholas Dorsten Blake & Dorsten, P.A.

Any letter you write to the judge will not be read by him. Rather, a copy will be placed in the court file and a copy given to the state attorney and you lawyer if you have one. You are better off having your attorney argue your position for you.

Good luck,

www.BlakeDorstenLaw.com

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Answered on 1/17/12, 6:44 am
Thomas Rosenblum Rosenblum Law Offices

Hello: In our jurisdiction, the Judge probably would read your letter and advise the parties. It is usually done for the purposes of seeking some consideration before sentencing. However, usually when our clients are entering a plea, we already have an agreement with the State Attorney and the Judge just accepts the plea and orders the agreed sentence.

As for the letter admitting guilt...well, it's OK if you're entering a plea of No Contest or guilty. If the case is not settling, but rather, going to a trial, most likely, the jury would never see the letter.

'Hope this helps. Tom Rosenblum

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Answered on 1/18/12, 8:10 am


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