We always advise against clients writing letters directly to the judge or the prosecutor. 

Most of these letters will not be considered, and many end up in the recycling bin. If you have questions or issues, you should discuss them with your defense attorney, who will help you through the process.

But there’s one key exception: Character letters. You will ask friends and family members to write these letters on your behalf. The letters will go to your defense attorney first, and then be turned over to the judge.

It’s crucial that these letters address the judge correctly. You want the letter writers to make the best possible impression.

How to Address a Judge in a Letter

Character letters can be a powerful tool to persuade the judge to assess a lighter sentence. They are an essential part of your criminal case.

Here’s an example:

In every character letter, the writer must know how to format the letter and address the judge. Do not write “Honorable Judge” because that’s redundant. Either “Judge” or “The Honorable” is acceptable. It’s also acceptable to use “To Whom It May Concern.”

Here is the correct way to format this:

The Honorable [first name] [last name] or Judge [first name] [last name]

Court Name

Address

City, State, ZIP code

Dear Judge [last name]:

READ MORE: How to write a compelling character letter

Special Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to this standard format, depending on the role of the person you’re addressing. Let’s consider these exceptions.

• Judge vs. Justice: In Texas, “judge” and “justice” refer to different types of judicial officers, each with specific roles and responsibilities. You won’t write character letters to justices unless there’s an unusual circumstance because, generally speaking, justices only serve in higher appellate courts and don’t conduct trials. (A Justice of the Peace is not considered a judge or justice. Justice of the Peace is typically an elected or appointed position that does not require the same legal training that a judge or justice must have). 
• Notable titles: If writing to a Chief Judge or Presiding Justice, you should add that title in the address block above the court name. Most other designations, including Associate Justice or Senior Judge, can be listed without being listed.
• Bankruptcy Court: If you’re writing to a bankruptcy judge, you do not need to add any special designation. Just be sure to specify that they work at the Bankruptcy Court.

How to Address the Letter If You Don’t Know the Judge’s Name

Aside from character letters, you should not write letters directly to a judge. If you incorrectly send a letter to a judge, it could harm your situation. It’s always best to communicate through your attorney.

They have the authority to act on your message.

Times when you would address the defense include:

• You want to be an expert witness
• You want to be a character witness
• You are a current witness

If you have an emergency scheduling issue, you can reach us 24/7.

Don’t Worry About the Reference Line or Court’s Address

If you don’t have this information, don’t worry. It isn’t necessary.

These letters will be delivered to your defense attorney, so while it’s acceptable to include identifiers like the court’s address, a case number, a reference line, etc., you don’t need to include that information. Your attorney will make sure it gets to the right place.

How to Address a Judge in Person

Whether you’re in the courtroom or you run into the Judge elsewhere in the courthouse, it’s important to address the judge correctly and respectfully. Avoid using sir or ma’am. Address a judge in person as “Your Honor” or “Judge [last name].” Don’t simply say “judge.”