Defend a friend or family member's moral character in court. Use our Character Reference Letter for Court template to easily write your document.What parents and witnesses need to know about character reference letters to the court for child custody. Includes a downloadable sample and template. The description of the defendant's character traits and personal qualities takes a special place in this letter. Learn how to write a letter to a judge. Whether you are writing as a victim or on behalf of a defendant, follow these expert tips. Samples of both forms are included below. The purpose of a character reference letter for court is to paint a defendant in a positive light through the words of someone who knows the defendant well. Below are the most commonly used forms in the District Court of the District of Minnesota.