Sample letter asking leniency from the judge before your sons sentencing?

Dear Honorable (judge's name)

It is with much sorrow that I have to write this letter pleading mercy from this Honorable Court for my son, (his name). I know that my son has done much wrong and he nor his family deny that. However, we also recognize that his behavior is due to the nature of his addiction. He has been a herion addict for (number of years). This breaks my heart every day. I am sure when (son's name) has his wits about him he is cognizant of the pain he has cause me and his family.

Absent his drug addiction, my son is a good person. He has been a good provider for his children and, while not the best role model, a decent Father. His children love him and would love to have him in their lives. It is with daily prayer that we work toward getting and keeping (son's) name clean from the demons of drugs leading to other criminal activity.

(if he was employed, you can mention that. if he has a high school diploma or trade mention it. anything positive you can think of, put in a paragraph here. you can once again bring up the children; how old they are - what a longer incarceration will mean to them in terms of being able to bond with their Dad, etc.)

I fully understand that (son's name) should be punished for his crimes. I do plead with this Honorable Court that you take into account that he is a drug addict. Not that his actions should be excused; but in the sense that he needs treatment. I understand he has victimized folks with his behavior and I hope one day they will see their way to forgiveness.

Your Honor, 13 years is a long time as punishment should mesh with rehabilitation before that; and arent we a society of rehabilitation? He is a non-violent offender, which I sincerely XXXXX XXXXX court will consider when imposing sentence. It is with a Mother's heartfelt sincerity and love for my son that I implore this Honorable Court to consider the lesser sentence.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,