If you've been asked to write to the judge, use our sample character reference letter and fill-in-the-blank template. What's a character reference letter?A character letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things. The character reference letter for court serves the purpose of offering the Judge insights into the Defendant's moral or mental attributes. A character letter plays a dual role. A character letter is designed to show support for a defendant in a criminal case. These letters have the potential to influence the court. Fill out a separate copy of this form for each child for whom you want the court to appoint a guardian. If you have a lot of witnesses, you may have extra forms to fill out. Exhusband is being sentenced in a criminal matter in WI. He has submitted character letters prior to sentencing.