Overview
Odyssey courts can send text messages to remind defendants in criminal cases about upcoming hearings. The initiative is aimed at reducing the number of people who fail to appear in court—which can result in an arrest warrant being issued. Evidence shows reminders can be effective in reducing costly failure to appear rates. The reminders are also part of best practices designed to ensure community safety and fairness to defendants.
How It Works
The texts are sent automatically in any criminal case if there is a cell phone number for the defendant stored electronically by the court, the court is an Odyssey court, and the county has opted into the text system. There is no charge to the county to participate.
Reminders are sent 5 days and 1 day in advance of a hearing from either of the following phone numbers: 317-316-0810 or 317-286-6725. If a text message has been sent but the hearing is cancelled or rescheduled, another message is sent. Recipients can opt out by texting STOP in reply.
Courts Using the System
The system became available in May 2018. As of May 2021 it is in use by the following counties:
Contact Information
For defendants interested in receiving court hearing text reminders, please contact the county clerk. A defendant may need to appear in person at the clerk's office and show photo ID to have their cell number added to their case.
Individuals who believe they are receiving the text messages in error should contact the clerk or court for the court case number indicated in the text message. Go to mycase.in.gov to find specific case information.