Fake court notices targeting Georgia residents prompt scam warning from judges

The Northeastern Judicial Circuit is warning Hall County residents about a scam involving fake court documents that claim to be official court orders.

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The scam targets people with pending criminal cases and their families, according to the court.

Officials say the fraudulent document is titled “Day Reporting Center Participation Agreement” and falsely presents itself as an official Hall County court order and court-approved program agreement.

The document uses the name of a Superior Court judge, includes court information and references criminal charges, bond conditions and program fees to make it appear legitimate.

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However, the Northeastern Judicial Circuit says the document was not issued, approved or authorized by the Hall County Courts.

The circuit reminds residents that court orders, bond changes and case dispositions can only be authorized through official court proceedings. Court orders must be signed by a judge and become effective when filed with the Clerk of Court.

Anyone who receives the fake agreement should not send money, share personal or financial information, or treat the document as a valid court order.

Residents with questions about court-related communications should contact the appropriate court office, an attorney or law enforcement to verify the information.

Hall County residents who receive the fraudulent documents are asked to report them online or call the Hall County Sheriff’s non-emergency dispatch line at 770-536-8812, ext. 8.

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