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 is designed to show support for a defendant in a criminal case. These letters have the potential to influence the court. You start it "Dear Judge". In this article, we will discuss how to write a formal letter to a judge, along with the proper format and a sample letter. A character reference letter for court child custody is a legal document serving as the recommendation for a parent who wishes to become a guardian. A character letter to a judge should establish your credibility, paint a full picture of the defendant and be respectful, among other things. Good character reference letters help the judge understand the defendant as an individual. Ideally, the writer should express how he or she knows the defendant.