If you have been asked to write a character reference letter for CPS, it means that someone you know is involved in a case with Child Protective Services. A character reference letter is an important document that can help the parents or guardians of the child to show their good character and their ability to provide a safe and stable environment for the child. In this article, we will give you some tips and examples of how to write a character reference letter for CPS.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter for CPS
If you are asked to write a character reference letter for CPS, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Be specific: Use specific examples to illustrate the person’s character and parenting abilities.
- Stick to the facts: Only include information that you know to be true.
- Be positive: Focus on the person’s strengths and positive qualities.
- Use a professional tone: This is an important legal document, so make sure your tone is formal and respectful.
- Offer to be contacted: Include your contact information in case CPS needs to follow up with you.
Examples of Character Reference Letters for CPS
Example 1: Character Reference Letter for CPS Custody Case
Dear Judge,
I am writing this letter in support of Jane Doe, who is involved in a custody case with CPS. I have known Jane for over 10 years and have always known her to be a loving and responsible parent.
She has two children, ages 5 and 7, who are happy and well-cared for. Jane provides them with a safe and stable home environment, and always puts their needs first. She is an excellent cook and always makes sure they have nutritious meals.
I am confident that Jane is capable of providing a loving and safe home for her children, and I strongly support her in this custody case. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if I can provide any additional information.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Example 2: Character Reference Letter for CPS Investigation
Dear CPS Investigator,
I am writing this letter in support of my neighbor, Jane Doe, who is currently under investigation by CPS. I have known Jane for several years and have always known her to be a caring and responsible parent.
I have seen Jane interact with her children on many occasions, and I can attest to the fact that she is a loving and attentive mother. Her children are always clean, well-fed, and happy. She takes them to all of their doctor appointments and makes sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations.
I believe that Jane is a good parent who is doing her best to provide for her children, and I hope that the investigation will be resolved quickly and with a positive outcome.
Sincerely,
Mary Johnson
Example 3: Character Reference Letter for CPS Foster Parent
Dear Foster Care Review Board,
I am writing this letter in support of John Smith, who has been a foster parent for the past year. John has been an incredible caregiver to my nephew, who was placed in his home after being removed from his parents due to neglect.
John has provided my nephew with a safe and loving home environment. He has enrolled him in school and helped him catch up on his studies. John has also taken my nephew to counseling appointments to help him deal with the trauma he experienced before coming into foster care.
I strongly believe that John is an excellent foster parent who is providing my nephew with the stability and support he needs to thrive. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if I can provide any additional information.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Example 4: Character Reference Letter for CPS Court Hearing
Dear Judge,
I am writing this letter in support of my sister, Jane Doe, who is involved in a CPS court hearing. I have known Jane for her entire life, and I can attest to the fact that she is a loving and responsible parent.
Jane has two children, ages 4 and 6, who are her top priority. She provides them with a safe and stable home environment and always puts their needs first. She works hard to make sure they have everything they need, including food, clothing, and medical care.
I strongly support my sister in this court hearing and believe that she is an excellent parent who deserves to have custody of her children. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if I can provide any additional information.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Example 5: Character Reference Letter for CPS Investigation Allegations
Dear CPS Investigator,
I am writing this letter in support of my friend, Jane Doe, who is under investigation by CPS. I have known Jane for several years and have always known her to be a caring and responsible parent.
I am aware of the allegations against Jane, but I strongly believe that they are unfounded. I have personally seen her interact with her children on many occasions, and I can attest to the fact that she is a loving and attentive mother. Her children are always clean, well-fed, and happy.
I hope that the investigation will be resolved quickly and with a positive outcome for Jane and her children. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if I can provide any additional information.
Sincerely,
Mary Johnson
Example 6: Character Reference Letter for CPS Child Abuse Assessment
Dear CPS Investigator,
I am writing this letter in support of my co-worker, John Smith, who is currently being assessed for child abuse by CPS. I have known John for several years and have always known him to be a kind and compassionate person.
I cannot speak to the allegations against John, but I can say that he is a caring father who always puts his children first. He is involved in their education and extracurricular activities and is always there for them when they need him.
I hope that the assessment will be resolved quickly and with a positive outcome for John and his family. Please let me know if you have any further questions or if I can provide any additional information.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference letter for CPS?
A character reference letter for CPS is a document that is written by someone who knows a parent or guardian involved in a case with Child Protective Services. The letter is used to show the person’s good character and their ability to provide a safe and stable environment for the child.
What should I include in a character reference letter for CPS?
You should include specific examples to illustrate the person’s character and parenting abilities, stick to the facts, be positive, use a professional tone, and offer to be contacted.
Who can write a character reference letter for CPS?
Anyone who knows the person involved in the CPS case can write a character reference letter, but it is best if the person has known the parent or guardian for a significant amount of time and can speak to their character and parenting abilities.
What should I do if I am not comfortable writing a character reference letter for CPS?
If you are not comfortable writing a character reference letter for CPS, it is important to be honest with the person who asked you to write the letter. You can explain that you do not feel comfortable writing the letter and suggest that they ask someone else.
Can I provide additional information to CPS if they contact me after receiving the character reference letter?
Yes, if CPS contacts you after receiving the character reference letter, you can provide additional information or answer any questions they may have.
What should I do if I am contacted by CPS about a case?
If you are contacted by CPS about a case, it is important to be truthful and provide any information you have. You can also consult with an attorney if you have any concerns or questions about the case.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference letter for CPS can be a daunting task, but it is an important way to show your support for someone who is involved in a case with Child Protective Services. By following the tips and examples in this article, you can create a strong and effective character reference letter that can help the parent or guardian to show their good character and their ability to provide a safe and stable environment for the child.