Scam warning
Missed Jury Duty Call or Text
A caller or text claims to be from the court or the sheriff's office. They say you missed jury duty, a warrant is out for your arrest, and you can clear it by paying a fine right away.
Also called: Jury duty scam, Missed jury duty, Court fine scam
The one thing to remember
Courts send jury notices by mail, and never ask for payment over the phone, by text, or with gift cards.
How it happens
- You get a call or text from the “court clerk” or a “deputy”.
- They say you skipped jury duty and there's a warrant.
- They may know your name and address, and use a real judge's name.
- They want you to pay a fine by gift card, payment app, or Bitcoin machine, often while staying on the phone.
Warning signs
- A threat of arrest over jury duty.
- Payment by phone, text or gift card.
- Being told to stay on the line or go somewhere to pay.
What to do
- Hang up.
- Call your local courthouse using the number on its official website to check.
- Never pay a court fine because someone called or texted you.
Last checked: October 31, 2026