Customer: I need a sample letter of asking a judge for leniency when he is sentencing a former student for criminal charges. What parents and witnesses need to know about character reference letters to the court for child custody.Includes a downloadable sample and template. Introduce yourself and briefly describe your relationship with the recommended individual. The letter should express to the Court how you are in a strong and unique position to speak to their character. 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. A character reference letter can make a difference in a child custody case. It provides evidence of your parenting abilities. A character letter should be written in a formal and respectful tone. Express your belief that the parent is the most suitable guardian for their children.