The goal of character reference letters is to tell the judge a story. To give the judge insight into a defendant as a person.A character letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things. Include specific examples of how the person has helped you or someone else, or how he or she has been a leader or an inspiration. There's not time to read all that comes before a judge to read. 2. Character Letters are a great tool to help convince a judge to give a reduced sentence in a criminal case. The best character letters often begin with the writer explaining who he or she is and what he or she does. A character letter is a letter of support from people who know you to help show judges and DAs the positive sides of you. In the subject line, include the case name or number for reference. Susan has a productive future ahead of her.