There is every chance the judge hasn't had the letter brought to his attention. Probably thousands of people try to get out of it for multiple reasons and even if it was mailed to the judge, a clerk has opened the letter and likely just hasn't brought it the judges attention as urgent. I would take everything in with you to the selection that you already mailed with a cover letter giving great detailed specifics on how this will put you not only in financial hardship but your business will be ruined and you will leave five families in financial hardship also as they will not have the ability to go to work.