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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.

Legal Resource Center

In addition to website information, residents of Santa Barbara County can get free help in civil legal matters through the Legal Resource Centers located throughout the County.

About Legal Resource Center

We offer help with most non-criminal legal problems.
• Ask us your questions by phone or email
• Get help with court forms 
• Find step by step instructions online

The Legal Resource Center of Santa Barbara County is staffed by a California licensed attorney and is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

You can be helped in completing legal and court documents for various civil matters and infractions and in learning how to properly present your case to the court.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

Would you like to volunteer?  To see how you can help, please contact the Legal Resource Center Coordinator at any of the LRC locations.

What services are provided?

This office provides legal information and basic assistance in civil issue areas, including: 

  • General civil
  • Small claims
  • Judgment and debt collection
  • Unlawful detainer (eviction): Both for landlord and tenant
  • Guardianship of the person
  • Adoption/Step-parent adoption
  • Summary dissolution
  • Domestic violence restraining order: Application and response
  • Civil anti-harassment restraining order: Application and response
  • Landlord/tenant issues
  • Neighbor disputes
  • Name change
  • Criminal misdemeanor record expungement

Written materials are currently provided in English only, but will soon be available in Spanish as well.

All persons will be assisted regardless of income.

The services available to the public include:

  • Information
  • Resources
  • Referrals
  • Support
  • Educational materials, books and videos

Does it cost anything?

The LRC is operated by the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County, a 501(c)3 non-profit, through a grant by the Santa Barbara County Superior Court. Your donations are essential to ensure that we are able to provide high-quality legal services. A minimum $25 donation will be requested.

Ask for a Fee Waiver if you can't afford filing fees.

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