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LASC Launches Text Message Alerts for Cases in Collections Starting in September - Bench Bar Notes

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Bench Bar Updates


Beginning September 1, the Superior Court of Los Angeles County will implement a new text message alert system to notify individuals with delinquent (past-due) unpaid court balances that have been referred to collections related to their criminal, traffic, family law, dependency, and civil matters, as well as juror sanctions.

Text Message Alert Service: What to Expect

The text messaging feature is designed to improve the speed and efficiency of case resolution by providing account holders whose delinquent balances have been referred to collections with immediate notifications and convenient access to payment or resolution options. The service will be provided to users whose unpaid court balances have been referred to collections and will be administered by the Court’s contracted collection vendors, Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson LLP and Harris & Harris Ltd. (Text Message/data rates may apply.)

The Court’s vendors are assigned based on courthouse location. Both vendors currently send letters and make calls to individuals with unpaid court balances. Starting in September, they will also send text messages that include a link to their official websites and a phone number for questions, support, and payment plan options.
 

Examples of vendor text message alerts

CONTACT THE COURT’S COLLECTION AGENCIES
Individuals may contact the appropriate collection agency to discuss available options, such as payment plans, for resolving unpaid court fines or fees:

HARRIS & HARRIS LTD
Mail: 111 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60604
Phone: 833-480-8895
Online: www.payharris.com


LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON LLP
Mail: P.O. Box 708900, San Antonio, TX 78270
Phone: 844-598-2699
Online: www.lgbswebpayments.com

Court users requiring assistance with payment are encouraged to contact the appropriate collection agency to discuss payment plans and payment options, which may be tailored to an individual’s specific circumstance.

Individuals with eligible traffic or non-traffic infractions may also petition the Court to reduce or modify fines and fees through the online Ability to Pay tool. The tool allows requests for reduced fines, the creation or modification of payment plans, or the completion of community service as an alternative to payment. Requests can be filed online with supporting documentation, and the Court will notify petitioners of its decision electronically.

Verifying a Text Message
To help the public verify the legitimacy of these messages and reduce concerns about scams, users may visit the Collections page of the Court’s website for more information and to verify the authenticity of text messages.

Text messaging has become a widely used and preferred method of communication. By adding this feature, the Court aims to improve public engagement, reduce delays and provide timely reminders to help individuals resolve outstanding obligations.

For information, visit the Court’s website, www.LACourt.ca.gov, and follow the Court on X (@LASuperiorCourt) and Threads (@LASuperiorCourt).

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