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Write a character reference letter for court.

Answer a few questions about what you've seen. Get a one-page draft you can review and copy free.

1 · You
2 · What you've seen
3 · Your story
4 · Your letter

Let's start with you.

There are no wrong answers, and you can change anything later.

Who are you to them?
Family relationship (optional)
What is the case about? (pick the closest — "Not sure" is fine)

Tell us about them.

Only what you know to be true — a judge can tell the difference.

What are they like? (optional — only choose what you know is true)
What have they done since the arrest? (judges weigh this — only check what's true)
About you — for the opening line and signature (optional, you can add it later)
How will you support them after release? (housing, a job, rides — the board looks for this)

The moment you'd want the judge to see.

One true memory does more than any list of good qualities. Small, everyday moments are often the most powerful.

What have you seen them do? (optional, but it's the heart of the letter)
Write it the way you'd tell a friend. Details help: who, where, what they did. Please don't write about the case itself — we'll handle that part carefully.
Looking ahead, how will you stand by them? (optional — judges look for a real support system)
Does anyone depend on them? (optional)

Here is the beginning of your letter.

What we did for you

    Sample print-ready page
    Print-ready version
    Dated, one page, your name and details filled in, space to sign — as Word + PDF. Plus 3 tone rewrites and sending instructions. See a sample
    Others in the family writing too? Judges notice when letters sound alike.
    Not getting the print-ready version today? One tap helps us improve:
    Keep this letter It stays at your private link for 30 days.
    Email me the linkText it to me
    Or open your private link and bookmark it.

    Free full text. Optional Word + PDF: $12.99. Pricing

    Download a sample character reference letter for court

    See how a finished one-page letter is dated, addressed and signed for the court. The example uses fictional details: use it to understand the format, then replace every fact with something you personally know to be true. It also shows the right balance: a short introduction, one specific story, practical support and a respectful close.

    Open the free sample PDF Download the Word sample

    Need a blank outline instead? Use the free character letter template.

    Questions before you start?

    What is a character letter for court?

    A character reference letter for court describes the person you know through your relationship and first-hand observations. CharacterLetter helps turn those facts into a draft you can review and copy.

    Is my character letter free?

    Yes. Writing, reading and copying the full letter is free, with no account required. Optional Word and PDF files plus 3 tone rewrites cost $12.99. The $29.99 Family Pack covers up to 5 letters. Both are one-time payments.

    See pricing and what is included

    What do I need to get started?

    Your relationship to the person, how long you have known them, and facts you have personally observed. A short, specific memory can help. You can leave the judge’s name blank if you do not know it.

    Can I see a sample or use a template?

    Yes. Browse illustrative sample letters or use a free template to write your own. Replace example details with your own facts.

    See sample character reference letters for court · Get the free character letter template

    How does the AI use my answers?

    AI drafts the letter and checks it against your answers and our writing rules. It can still make mistakes. Review every sentence, correct anything inaccurate, and edit the copied text before signing.

    About the tool and its sources

    What happens to my information?

    No sign-up is required. Keep your private letter link to yourself and save a copy before it expires after 30 days. Avoid adding unnecessary personal details.

    Read the privacy policy

    How do I submit my letter?

    Ask the attorney handling the case about the recipient, deadline and filing process before sending it. CharacterLetter does not submit letters or provide legal advice.

    Read the writing guide