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Fraud Alert: Scam Text Messages Claiming DMV Penalties -

We have been made aware of fraudulent text messages being sent to individuals claiming to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the court system. These messages often state that the recipient owes penalties or fees related to traffic violations or DMV infractions and may include a link or phone number to resolve the matter. 

Take these steps to reduce the chances of falling victim to a text message scam:

  • Never respond to unsolicited or suspicious texts — If you receive a message asking for personal or financial information, do not reply.
  • Verify the source — If you are unsure, always contact the DMV through official channels.
  • Call the DMV if you have concerns — The DMV customer service team is available to help you at 800-777-0133.

Please see DMV warning about fraudulent texts: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/news-and-media/dmv-warns-of-fraudulent-te…

Jury Scam alert -

The Santa Barbara Superior Court has received complaints about individuals trying to scam members of the public by pretending to be court officers or officials. The Jury Services office of the Santa Barbara Superior Court does not call citizens to request payments for failing to appear for jury duty. California law does not permit citizens to pay a fine in lieu of jury duty. If you receive such a call simply hang up and, if the scammer persists, call your local law enforcement agency. Learn more about the recent scam warning.

Notice to Jurors:

Prospective jurors summoned for jury service can expect to receive their jury summons in postcard form. Please check your mail for a postcard with important instructions to fulfil your jury service. Visit the Jury Services page for more information.

The Historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse

Historic Courthouse

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse, located at 1100 Anacapa Street, is an iconic Santa Barbara landmark.

Anacapa

Designed by William Mooser III, the Spanish-Moorish style building was completed in 1929, after the 1925 earthquake ruined much of the city. It occupies a square block in downtown Santa Barbara.  Gardens and lawns surround this working courthouse.  Civic events, performances and numerous weddings are held on the attractively landscaped Sunken Gardens where the 1872 courthouse once stood. For information regarding use of the Sunken Gardens for wedding ceremonies or other events please contact the Santa Barbara County Parks Department at this link. Marriage License information can be found at the County Clerk Recorder's office.

Anacapa2

Visitors can ride an elevator to the 85-foot "El Mirador" clock tower for unforgettable views of the city, coast and mountains. Other attractions include the Mural Room, "Spirit of the Ocean" fountain, noteworthy architecture and ornate tile work throughout the building.

An Information Booth is located in the lobby near the main archway.

For more information about Courthouse Tours, please visit https://sbcourthouse.org/

Free docent tours are conducted of the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse Monday through Friday at 10:30 AM, except for Court Holidays and every day except December 25 at 2:00 PM. The tour begins in the Mural Room on the second floor. No reservation is required. 

Information on Courthouse restoration can be found on the Courthouse Legacy Foundation's website.

Mural room

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