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If you choose the DIY route, please tailor this letter for your specific situation. This is a sample - do not copy verbatim.
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[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
The Honorable [Judge's Full Name]
United States District Court
[Court Jurisdiction e.g. Southern District of New York]
[Address of the Court]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Regarding: U.S. vs Defendant’s name [Case Number]
Dear Honorable Judge [Judge's Last Name],
My name is [spouse's name], and XX is my beloved husband. We met seventeen years ago, playing soccer through a college summer program. XX is my best friend and the most wonderful father I could have wanted for my daughters.
When the FBI arrested XX, I was shocked. I felt confused and disappointed when I learned that he broke the law. I wish he had not used such poor judgment. Please accept this letter as my way of putting XX's mistakes in the broader context of our life together.
At soccer practice when we first met so many years ago, I noticed XX's confidence, outgoing spirit, and playful attitude. XX met my father on our first date and immediately demonstrated his gentleness and respect. We had a classic romance that included sports, dinners, and dancing. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with XX.
XX is the first call anyone makes when a family member or friend needs help around the house. He is handy and willing to do anything he can to help anyone. XX is a CPA and has helped mentor three friends to make career transitions into the tax preparation field. I'm sure that if XX had been a park ranger, those same friends would be park rangers now. My husband is generous with his time and energy. He is a compassionate, good neighbor.
XX and I have two young daughters who are healthy and happy. XX always makes our family his priority. Even during tax season, he does not miss our daughters' volleyball practices, or gymnastics meets. He always plans his work so he can be home by five o'clock for dinner. Sometimes he will come home for dinner, stay until the girls go to bed, then return to the office to finish working.
From day one, my family loved and respected my husband. My father and brother often travel with XX for camping, backpacking, or an Alaskan fishing trip. My father is a travel nurse and usually spends months at a time living with us. Also, my mother lived with us for several months during her struggle with depression. I am so grateful for my husband's kind, welcoming heart. Not every man embraces and adores his in-laws the way XX does.
I am ashamed that XX violated federal law. However, he has undergone a process of introspection and rehabilitation. He has opened up to me about how and why he got involved in the terrible decisions he made. I'm grateful that he accepts full responsibility and is committed to living the rest of his life as a law-abiding citizen. He made a grave mistake, and he knows it. He, along with our family, are going through a process of self-examination and repentance together. I have forgiven my husband for making this mistake and bringing us this shame upon our family.
Every day, I enjoy the blessings of marriage to the love of my life. He is a loving father with a
mature sense of duty. Already, he is showing everyone how to accept responsibility with humility and grace. When we tell this chapter in our family's story, I know that story will end with atonement and reconciliation. I know XX will be an example of how to learn from mistakes and use life experience to be of service to others.
Your Honor, I hope you will keep my words in mind as you determine the sanction XX must pay for his criminal behavior.
Sincerely,
[Wife's name]