If you've been asked to write to the judge, use our sample character reference letter and fill-in-the-blank template. What's a character reference letter?The character reference letter for court serves the purpose of offering the Judge insights into the Defendant's moral or mental attributes. In the first paragraph, state how you know the person and attest to their character. Everything you need to write a declaration letter to the judge in your custody case: an example, a downloadable template, an outline and tips. A character reference letter for court child custody is a legal document serving as the recommendation for a parent who wishes to become a guardian. A character letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things. A character reference letter can make a difference in a child custody case. It provides evidence of your parenting abilities. You write a DECLARATION, under PENALTY OF PERJURY and state in the beginning: I JANE SMITH, DECLARE: 1.