TOPEKA—The Kansas judicial branch has launched a text messaging service to remind people of their upcoming court hearings to reduce missed court appearances.
Carrie McGinley, director of trial court services, said the service is meant to improve communication with court users and improve court appearance rates.
“This will help people who are juggling many responsibilities in their lives and need a quick and timely reminder about their court date,” she said.
McGinley said people can register for the messaging service on the Kansas Hearing Reminders website, HearingReminder.kscourts.gov. Registration involves entering a name, phone number, and case number as it appears on court documents.
Once registered, a person will receive a text message reminder three days before and one day before their scheduled hearing date. The service can also notify users about unexpected court closures.
McGinley said the text message reminders are offered as a convenience to court users and don’t replace official court notices, orders, or other required communications. Users may opt out of the service at any time. The service is free but message rates may apply depending on the user’s mobile service provider.
Text message reminders are an option for most case types, but not all. The service is not available for:
- Protection from abuse
- Protection from stalking, sexual assault, and human trafficking
- Child in need of care
- Adoption
- Care and treatment
- Miscellaneous criminal and civil cases
- Marriage licenses
- Statutory liens and bonds
- State tax warrants