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. How To Start Your Letter. There's not time to read all that comes before a judge to read. Defend a friend or family member's moral character in court. Use our Character Reference Letter for Court template to easily write your document. List specific character traits of the defendant that you have personally observed.