A Character Reference Letter is a vital document in Swiss professional and personal contexts, serving as a formal testimony to an individual's character, integrity, and personal qualities. The document is commonly requested for various purposes, including job applications, educational admissions, rental applications, or legal proceedings. Under Swiss law, particularly considering the Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) and relevant provisions of the Swiss Civil Code, the letter must be truthful, objective, and respect the subject's privacy rights. The reference letter should provide specific examples and observations that support the character assessment while maintaining professional standards and avoiding any potential legal liability for false statements. The document's content typically includes the writer's relationship with the subject, duration of acquaintance, observed character traits, and specific instances demonstrating these qualities.

1. Letter Header: Include date, recipient's name and address if known, and formal letter formatting

2. Salutation: Formal greeting to the recipient

3. Introduction: Writer's introduction, relationship to the subject, and duration of acquaintance

4. Subject Introduction: Basic information about the person being recommended

5. Character Assessment: Detailed description of the subject's positive character traits with specific examples

6. Recommendation Statement: Clear statement of recommendation and willingness to be contacted

7. Closing: Professional closing, signature, and contact information