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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.

Court Update

Teresa Martinez to be Sworn in as Santa Barbara Superior Court Judge

May 9, 2025

Presiding Judge Patricia L. Kelly is honored to welcome the newest member of the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Barbara, Teresa Martinez.

On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Governor Newsom appointed Teresa Martinez to the Santa Barbara Superior Court bench. Prior to joining the court, Teresa Martinez served as a Senior Deputy County Counsel at the Santa Barbara County Counsel’s Office since 2018. She was an Associate at Buynak, Fauver, Archbald & Spray LLP from 2017 to 2018. Martinez was a Solo Practitioner at Teresa Martinez Law from 2016 to 2017. She worked at California Rural Legal Assistance in various roles including Directing Attorney from 2013 to 2016 and staff attorney from 2012 to 2013. Martinez was a contract attorney at the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County from 2011 to 2012. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from Cincinnati Collage of Law.

Upon learning of Judge Martinez’s appointment, Presiding Judge Kelly noted, “Judge Martinez will be an outstanding addition to the Santa Barbara Superior Court. Her tenure with County Counsel’s Office provides her with excellent experience in preparation for this new role. I join all my colleagues on the Santa Barbara Superior Court in welcoming her to this new chapter in her career. The community will be well served by this appointment.”

Martinez fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jean M. Dandona.

PDF found here.

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