Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Re: Letter to judge

Yes, you can certainly write a letter to the judge but it would be more powerful and meaningful if you actually attended the sentencing hearing in person and asked to speak.

As far as writing a letter to the judge, there�s no specific format to follow or example. You can type it or hand-write it. Be sure to clearly put your husband�s case number on it so the court clerk�s office will be able to get your letter into the correct case file. Also be sure to make it clear who you are and why you are writing. Speak from your heart and say what you feel you need to say.

You didn�t mention what your husband is charged with or whether he is being represented by an attorney. If he is charged with a crime involving you or the children as victims, then you have the legal right to be present and testify at sentencing. If he has an attorney, I strongly recommend contacting that person to coordinate your comments to be sure that whatever you say is in your husband�s best legal interest. His attorney can also help you in being recognized by the court to speak at the sentencing.