Sample Format for a Character Letter. If you have been asked to write a character letter, this simple template may be a useful guide."Learn how to craft an effective character reference letter for court proceedings with our comprehensive guide. A character recommendation letter for court is a document that provides insight into your character and personal attributes. A character letter plays a dual role. Character letters can be a powerful tool to persuade the judge to assess a lighter sentence. They are an essential part of your criminal case. 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.