GUIDELINES

  1. Provide a concise and relevant introduction about yourself.
  2. Give a comprehensive but concise description of how you know the person in question.
  3. Discuss your observations regarding the person's character based on your experiences dealing with him. Do not give information based on hearsay, and make an effort to discuss the issues in a disinterested and unbiased manner.
  4. End your letter respectfully.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Senders Name]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]

[Letter Date]

[Recipients Name]
[Address line]
[State, ZIP Code]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-


Dear [Recipients Name],

Greetings! My name is Claire Clarks. I am 30 years old and have been working with Ms. Jean James for four years as a teacher at Dean Elementary School. We have had the chance to work together closely as we both belong to the Science Department.

During my years of working with Ms. James, I have found her to be a highly-disciplined and ethical person. I have never known her to engage in dishonest behavior. In fact, she has gained a reputation for being a stickler for the rules, both among her students and co-teachers.

I hope that I have been able to shed light on the character of Ms. James. If you need further information, I may be reached at 555-5555. Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

[Senders Name]
[Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional -
cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Character reference for a person appearing in court.

Further things to consider when writing reference letters to government officials

Further things to consider when writing reference letters to government officials

Reference Letters

Reference letters are letters written to endorse someone's general character and personality. A reference letter differs from a recommendation letter in that the latter supports the person's application for a specific job or education program and is usually addressed to a particular person. A reference letter is more general in nature, refers to the overall character of the person, and is not addressed to anyone in particular. It is normally addressed as "Dear sir/madam," or "To whom it may concern." The person who writes the reference letter is known as the referee, and he/she could be a close friend or colleague.

For you to write good reference letters, you need to know the candidates well to be able to express their best character. Start off with a salutation and the name of the person the letter is about. Write a sentence or two explaining how you know the person and for how long. Mention the strong qualities, characteristics, and strengths of the person in question. Giving brief examples, discuss why you feel the person will be a great addition to office and work culture. Use strong verbs but do not exaggerate. Conclude with your contacts and signature.

Letters to Government Officials

Letters to government officials are letters written to any person who works and acts in an official capacity for the government. The recipients of such letters could be congressmen, governors, or even the president. There are many reasons why you may want to write to a government official. Maybe some roads in your area need reconstruction and proper lighting. Perhaps there is a curfew in your town which has made it impossible for you to do night shifts. Whatever the reason, the letter must be formal, respectful, and well-worded.

When writing letters to government officials, you need to decide the official to whom you want to direct the letter. Start by introducing yourself and clearly stating the reason for your letter. Explain how the issue at hand affects you and other people in your group. Explain your personal stand on it and the reason for your position. Offer suggestions that you think can solve the problem. Emphasize important information by bolding or underlining. Try to keep the letter short, preferably one page. Wrap it up by thanking the recipient in advance for reading the letter and considering your thoughts. Type the letter or write it in clear, legible handwriting.

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