The character reference letter for court serves the purpose of offering the Judge insights into the Defendant's moral or mental attributes. 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? Everything you need to write a declaration letter to the judge in your custody case: an example, a downloadable template, an outline and tips. Sample Format for a Character Letter. If you have been asked to write a character letter, this simple template may be a useful guide. 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. 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.