Writing a character reference letter for a friend can be a daunting task, but it can also be a great way to help them in their time of need. In this article, we will provide seven sample character reference letters for a friend that you can use as a guide. These examples are meant to be edited as needed and tailored specifically to your friend’s situation.
If your friend is facing a challenging situation and needs a character reference letter, you might be wondering where to start. A character reference letter is a written document that attests to a person’s positive attributes and can be used in legal proceedings, job applications, and more. In this article, we will provide seven sample character reference letters for a friend that you can use as a guide.
Writing a character reference letter can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you have never done it before. But with a little guidance and the right tools, you can create a powerful letter that highlights your friend’s best qualities. The key is to be specific, honest, and to provide examples that illustrate your friend’s character.
Below, you will find seven sample character reference letters that you can use as a guide. These letters are meant to be edited and customized as needed to fit your friend’s specific situation. Feel free to use these examples to get started and make them your own.
Remember, the most important thing is to be honest and authentic. Your friend is counting on you, and your letter could make all the difference in their situation.
Sample Character Reference Letter Examples
Character Reference Letter for a Friend Seeking Custody of Their Child
Dear Judge,
I am writing this letter in support of my dear friend [Name], who is seeking custody of their child. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their outstanding character and parenting skills.
[Share specific examples of your friend’s parenting skills, such as how they prioritize their child’s needs or how much they love spending time with their child.]
[Share any additional positive attributes of your friend, such as their dependability, honesty, integrity, and so on.]
Thank you for considering my letter in your decision-making process.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Friend Applying for a Job
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing this letter in support of my friend [Name], who is applying for a job at your company. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their strong work ethic and positive attitude.
[Share specific examples of your friend’s work ethic and attitude, such as how they always go above and beyond in their work or how they are a team player.]
[Share any additional positive attributes of your friend, such as their creativity, problem-solving skills, and so on.]
I highly recommend [Name] for the position and believe they would be a valuable asset to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Friend Going Through a Divorce
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of my friend [Name], who is going through a difficult divorce. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their strong character and moral values.
[Share specific examples of your friend’s character and moral values, such as how they always put their family first or how they have overcome challenges with grace and dignity.]
[Share any additional positive attributes of your friend, such as their kindness, compassion, and so on.]
I believe that [Name] is an outstanding person with a bright future ahead, and I fully support them during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Friend Applying for Graduate School
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing this letter in support of my friend [Name], who is applying for graduate school. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their exceptional academic abilities and intellectual curiosity.
[Share specific examples of your friend’s academic achievements, such as any awards, publications, or research projects they have completed. Also, share any instances of their intellectual curiosity, such as how they always seek out new knowledge or how they challenge themselves academically.]
[Share any additional positive attributes of your friend, such as their leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and so on.]
[Name] would be an outstanding addition to your graduate program, and I highly recommend them for admission.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Friend Going Through Financial Hardship
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing this letter in support of my friend [Name], who is going through a difficult financial situation. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their honesty, integrity, and hardworking nature.
[Share specific examples of your friend’s honesty, integrity, and hardworking nature, such as how they always pay their bills on time or how they have worked multiple jobs to make ends meet.]
[Share any additional positive attributes of your friend, such as their resourcefulness, resilience, and so on.]
I believe that [Name] is a person of outstanding character, and I fully support them during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Character Reference Letter for a Friend Facing Legal Proceedings
Dear Judge,
I am writing this letter in support of my friend [Name], who is facing legal proceedings. I have known [Name] for [Number of Years] and can attest to their outstanding character and respect for the law.
[Share specific examples of your friend’s respect for the law, such as how they always follow rules and regulations or how they have never been in trouble with the law before.]
[Share any additional positive attributes of your friend, such as their honesty, integrity, and so on.]
Thank you for considering my letter in your decision-making process.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Strong Character Reference Letter
Writing a character reference letter for a friend can be intimidating, but it’s important to remember that your letter can make a significant impact on their situation. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be specific: Provide concrete examples of your friend’s positive attributes and skills.
- Be honest: Don’t exaggerate or make claims that you can’t back up.
- Be concise: Keep your letter to one page or less and focus on the most important points.
- Be professional: Use a formal tone and follow standard letter-writing conventions.
- Be thoughtful: Take the time to reflect on your friend’s situation and what they need from you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a character reference letter?
A character reference letter is a written document that attests to a person’s positive attributes, personality traits, and abilities. It can be used in legal proceedings, job applications, and other situations where a person’s character is being evaluated.
Who should write a character reference letter?
A character reference letter should be written by someone who knows the person well and can provide specific examples of their positive attributes and skills. This could be a friend, family member, coworker, or mentor.
What should be included in a character reference letter?
A character reference letter should include the author’s contact information, a greeting to the recipient, an introduction that establishes the author’s relationship to the person being referred, specific examples of the person’s positive attributes and skills, and a conclusion that summarizes the author’s recommendation.
How long should a character reference letter be?
A character reference letter should be one page or less. It should be concise and focused on the most important points.
Can a character reference letter be used in court?
Yes, a character reference letter can be used in court to support a person’s case. However, it is up to the judge’s discretion whether or not to consider the letter as evidence.
Can a character reference letter be used for a job application?
Yes, a character reference letter can be used as part of a job application. It can provide additional insight into a person’s character and abilities beyond what is included in their resume or cover letter.
Is it okay to decline a request to write a character reference letter?
Yes, it is okay to decline a request to write a character reference letter if you do not feel comfortable doing so or do not have enough knowledge of the person’s character to provide an accurate recommendation. It is better to decline than to provide a lukewarm or negative recommendation.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference letter for a friend can be a powerful way to help them in their time of need. By following the tips above and using the sample letters provided, you can create a letter that showcases your friend’s best attributes and helps them achieve their goals. Remember, you are making a difference in their life and your words matter.