How to Write a Court Report
A
court report is a document written on behalf of someone who has been
found guilty of committing a crime, and it is submitted before
sentencing. Its purpose is to provide background information on the
guilty party (the "client") and sufficient reasons to grant a lighter
sentence or bail. You may be asked to file a court report on behalf of a
minor about to be sentenced.
- Background information about the client
- Legal adviser (recommended)
Instructions
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1
Gather necessary information. Ask your client's legal
adviser who is requesting the report from you, and why they are
requesting it. How is the court planning on using the information?
Knowing these answers will help you to stick to the point and make your
court report more effective.
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2
If anyone else is completing a court report on behalf of the
client, find out as much information as you can about the contents of
those reports. It's important to make sure the court reports don't
provide conflicting information.
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3
Determine how to address the person receiving the court
report. If you can't find out this person's name, address the report to
"The Presiding Judge" or "The Presiding Magistrate".
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4
Briefly describe who you are and how you know the client.
Make a brief statement stating that you are aware of the charges and you
know why he is in court.
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5
Write a brief description of the client's background and
family history. Include any details relevant to the charges the client
is facing, such as education, home life or past drug use. Then, write a
short description of the steps that will be taken in the future to
ensure that the crime is not committed again. Note how you plan to be
involved in the client's life and what changes are going to occur in his
life to ensure he or she behaves differently.
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6
Sign and date the court report. Make multiple copies for your records and in case the court has need of them.
Keep your court report short and to the point. Use brief statements and stay on topic
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