A character letter is designed to show support for a defendant in a criminal case. These letters have the potential to influence the court.A character letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things. Defend a friend or family member's moral character in court. Use our Character Reference Letter for Court template to easily write your document. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph. Learn how character letters can help you get charges dismissed or reduced, get a more lenient sentence, or get treatment instead of jail. What parents and witnesses need to know about character reference letters to the court for child custody. Includes a downloadable sample and template. Below is a list of the civil district court forms that are available, free of charge, at the Civil Law Self-Help Center.