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 letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things.Note to Petitioner: Please provide three (3) character references. A character letter plays a dual role. A character reference letter can make a difference in a child custody case. It provides evidence of your parenting abilities. "Learn how to craft an effective character reference letter for court proceedings with our comprehensive guide. A character reference is a letter demonstrating the good character of an individual involved in a legal proceeding. I am writing this letter on behalf of a family member mine who is presently before you on criminal charges and is due to be sentenced shortly. The goal of writing a character letter is to humanize a defendant in the eyes of judges and prosecutors.