Written references about your good character can help your case in court
A written reference can provide the court with information about you and your circumstances.
It is often helpful to obtain one or more references from people who know you well and can provide accurate information about you. These people may include employers, colleagues, neighbours, family friends, community leaders, sporting club members or others who know you through work, study or community activities.
Each reference should be addressed “To the Presiding Judge”.
It should be:
- neatly written or typed in the writer's own words
- signed, with the name of the person printed underneath with their address and occupation, and
- dated.
Each reference should include the following:
- A statement from the person writing the reference that they are aware of the charges before the court.
- How long the person has known you.
- How the person knows you (e.g. as an employer, workmate, priest, teacher, team member, family friend, flatmate, etc.).
- The person’s opinion of your character.
- Anything which might help the court concerning your charges. (e.g. your general honesty if it is a stealing charge; your general driving ability if it is a drink driving charge.)
It will help your lawyer if you can provide the original reference to the court and have a copy for your lawyer. If you are representing yourself, keep one and hand one up to the court.
Important
The court may find a reference more helpful if the person writing it knows about your offence and mentions this in their letter.
References should be truthful and should not attempt to minimise the seriousness of the offence or dispute facts that have been accepted by the court.
Need legal help?
If you need advice about obtaining references or preparing for court, contact LawAccess NSW.
Updated September 2026