"Learn how to craft an effective character reference letter for court proceedings with our comprehensive guide. Susan has a productive future ahead of her.(Describe here her accomplishments of the past, especially civic duties, volunteer positions. A character letter is designed to show support for a defendant in a criminal case. These letters have the potential to influence the court. 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 should be written in a formal and respectful tone. These letters have strong potential to influence the judge. A character letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things.