Note to Petitioner: Please provide three (3) character references. First, you need to put a date on top of the reference.Character Reference Letters and Letters of Recommendation are useful in defending an Orange County DUI case, as prosecutors and judges use them in court. A character reference letter can make a difference in a child custody case. It provides evidence of your parenting abilities. Sample Format for a Character Letter. If you have been asked to write a character letter, this simple template may be a useful guide. If you wish to continue receiving email communications from Riverside Superior Court, please re-subscribe here. It highlights some of the main points of emphasis judges look for. If you've been asked to write to the judge, use our sample character reference letter and fill-in-the-blank template.