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How To Find Court Records In North Carolina

Searching for North Carolina court records can be a complex process, but CourtCaseFinder simplifies it. With the platform, you can quickly and easily access trial, district, and municipal court records, when available, from counties and cities across the state in a single, centralized location.

In North Carolina, court records are official documents that track the progress and outcomes of legal proceedings. They may contain useful details such as case numbers, filing dates, involved parties, case status, and even scheduled hearings that help you get the information you need without the hassle.

If you're not sure where to start, don't worry, CourtCaseFinder also helps you understand what these records mean and how they're organized in North Carolina. They help stay informed by researching case histories or learning more about the state's legal process.

How To Access North Carolina Public Court Records

While CourtCaseFinder provides a fast and user-friendly way to search court records across North Carolina, you can also use official government resources to access this information. These channels are often the most direct source for court records.

Online Access

The North Carolina Judicial Branch's eCourts Portal provides a convenient way to search for case details, hearing schedules, and, when available, information about the parties involved.

For users needing more comprehensive access, the Remote Public Access (RPA) Program offers statewide criminal and civil court data from all 100 counties. Licensed users can access this data through the RPA Legacy and RPA Cloud systems. The RPA program provides two types of access:

  • Real-time online access to active data
  • Bulk data extracts for larger or more detailed information requests

Authorized by the North Carolina General Assembly, the program allows the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts (NCAOC) to establish non-exclusive contracts with third parties to deliver remote public access to court records.

Fees collected through these agreements are directed to the Court Information Technology Fund, which supports upgrades and automation within the Judicial Branch.

In-Person Visits

You can review North Carolina court records in person by visiting the clerk of court's office in any county. Public, self-service terminals are available to search for both criminal and civil cases using details such as a defendant's name, case number, or, when applicable, the name of a victim or witness.

If you need to view physical records, paper case files can be examined on-site at the clerk's office where the case is filed. Copies of these documents can also be requested, though standard copy fees may apply.

Mail Requests

If you prefer not to visit a courthouse in person, you can request North Carolina court records by mail. To do this, you'll need to contact the clerk of the court's office in the county where the case was filed. Provide as much detail as possible, such as case numbers, party names, and the type of record you need, to help staff locate the file efficiently.

Keep in mind that standard copy and mailing fees may apply, and processing times can vary by county.

North Carolina Court Records: What is Public and What is Not?

North Carolina court records are generally available to the public under the state's Public Records Law. In most cases, you can expect these records to include useful details such as:

  • Case numbers, filing and disposition dates
  • Parties involved (e.g., plaintiffs, defendants, attorneys)
  • Dockets, court orders, motions, briefs, and judgments
  • Transcripts and hearing schedules, when available

Hearing schedules and transcripts may also be part of the accessible record.

However, not all court records are open for public view. Certain materials are restricted by law or sealed by court order to protect privacy or the integrity of legal proceedings. These often include juvenile case files, records that have been sealed or expunged, sensitive personal information, and materials related to ongoing investigations.

In some cases, drafts, internal judicial communications, or documents containing confidential business or medical information may also be withheld.

Who Oversees the Courts in North Carolina?

When it comes to oversight of North Carolina's court system, the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts (NCAOC) serves as the central administrative agency responsible for managing both state and county courts.

Established under Article IV, Section 15 of the North Carolina Constitution, the NCAOC oversees essential operations such as budgeting, technology infrastructure, procurement of equipment and supplies, and legal support across the unified court system.

At the helm of North Carolina's judiciary is the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, who not only presides over the highest court but also holds significant administrative authority. The Chief Justice appoints the director of the NCAOC and is empowered to designate key judicial leaders, including the Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals and Chief District Court Judges.

Additionally, the Chief Justice coordinates trial schedules and oversees the adoption of the statewide Code of Judicial Conduct.

Together, the NCAOC and the Chief Justice form a partnership that ensures North Carolina's courts function effectively, ethically, and fairly for all.

What Types of Courts Exist in North Carolina?

North Carolina operates a unified state court system designed to handle everything from minor disputes to complex appeals. Through this streamlined system, all legal matters in the state are directed to the appropriate court.

Here's an overview of the main courts within the state system and the types of cases they typically handle:

Court Type Jurisdiction Common Case Types

Supreme Court

The highest appellate court reviews questions of law and constitutional issues

Appeals involving significant public interest, constitutional disputes, and death penalty cases

Court of Appeals

An intermediate appellate court that reviews decisions from lower courts

Appeals from superior or district courts and certain administrative agencies

Superior Court

General-jurisdiction trial court for serious and high-value cases

Felony criminal cases, civil disputes over $25,000, de novo appeals from district court, and business litigation

District Court

Limited-jurisdiction trial court for lower-level matters, with magistrates handling minor cases

Misdemeanors, traffic infractions, divorces, child custody/support, juvenile cases, civil disputes under $25,000, small claims up to $10,000, landlord-tenant disputes, and setting bail or issuing warrants

What Federal Courts Are In North Carolina?

North Carolina's federal courts handle cases arising under federal laws and issues that cross state lines. They also oversee cases involving constitutional questions, federal crimes, disputes between states, and interstate commerce, among other things.

The following table summarizes the federal courts serving North Carolina, along with their jurisdictions and locations.

Federal Court Jurisdiction Location & Contact Information

U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina

Handles federal criminal and civil matters arising in the eastern portion of the state.

U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina

Covers federal cases from counties in the central region of North Carolina.

Please direct all case-related calls to (336) 332-6000.

U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina

Responsible for federal disputes in the western counties of the state.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina

Handles bankruptcy filings and related cases for the eastern region.

Both divisions can be reached at (919) 856-4752.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of North Carolina

Handles bankruptcy cases for the middle region.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of North Carolina

Handles bankruptcy filings and related cases for the western region.

Appeals from North Carolina's federal district and bankruptcy courts are sent to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, located in Richmond, Virginia. This appellate court also reviews cases from South Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland.

How Many Cases Are Handled Annually in North Carolina Courts?

Each year, the North Carolina Judicial Branch compiles statistics showing the volume of cases entering and leaving the court system. In addition to formal annual reports, the branch offers the Court Data Dashboard, an online visualization tool where users can explore case trends at both the state and county level through interactive charts and filters.

For the latest fiscal year reporting, courts recorded:

  • Cases filed: ~2,070,100
  • Cases resolved: ~2,340,800

Below are some of the leading case categories, along with their estimated yearly totals:

Case Type Approximate Annual Volume

Misdemeanors (Traffic)

~816,400

Infractions

~309,200

Misdemeanors (Non-Traffic)

~220,500

Civil Magistrate

~205.900

Felonies

~157,300

General Civil

~107,900

Other Domestic Relations

~92,100

Estates

~86,900

Special Proceedings

~34,500

Child Support

~13,300

How Do I File a Case in North Carolina Courts?

Filing a case in North Carolina is a structured process overseen by the state's courts. To help you understand what to expect, the following steps outline how a case is filed from start to finish:

Step 1: Determine Your Case Type and Where To File

The first step in filing a case in North Carolina is to determine the type of matter you are bringing and which court has authority to handle it. The North Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure outline how these cases are initiated and managed.

It is equally important to file in the proper county, known as the venue. In most situations, this will be the county where the defendant resides or where the property or events that gave rise to the case occurred. Filing in the wrong court or county can lead to dismissal for lack of jurisdiction or improper venue.

Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents

Starting a civil case in North Carolina usually involves three key filings: a complaint, a civil summons, and a civil action cover sheet. The complaint outlines the facts and legal claims, while the summons is issued by the clerk so the defendant can be formally served. The cover sheet provides basic case information to the court.

If you cannot afford the required fees, you may submit a Petition to Proceed as an Indigent. If the court approves your petition, you will be allowed to file your case without paying the court costs upfront.

Step 3: Choose the Filing Method

North Carolina is gradually implementing a statewide electronic filing system called eCourts. In counties where eCourts is already active, new cases can be submitted online using the File & Serve platform. Attorneys must file electronically, while people representing themselves may choose either online filing or in-person filing.

In counties not yet using eCourts, all filings must still be submitted in paper form with the Clerk of Superior Court, either by visiting the courthouse or by mail.

For help preparing paperwork, the Judicial Branch provides Guide & File, a free tool that asks a series of questions and then produces the necessary forms. In counties where eCourts is active, Guide & File can also be used to submit certain types of cases online.

Step 4: Serve the Other Party

Once your case is filed, the defendant or respondent must be formally notified. This is accomplished by delivering the summons and complaint through an approved method, such as certified mail or service by the county sheriff. If using the sheriff to serve documents, a separate statutory fee applies, which is outlined in the court's fee schedule.

Step 5: Monitor Your Case and Comply With Court Rules

You must keep track of your case's progress after it has been filed and the other party has been served. In counties using eCourts, the eCourts Portal provides online access to case status, upcoming court dates, deadlines, and options to pay fines or fees. In counties not using eCourts, the clerk's office serves as the primary source for updates.

How Is the North Carolina Court System Unique?

North Carolina uses specialty courts to tackle the root causes of legal problems, providing support and rehabilitation to help individuals and communities achieve better outcomes.

Among the most notable are recovery courts, which assist individuals with substance use disorders. Rather than incarceration, participants receive court-supervised treatment, which helps them overcome addiction and avoid future legal issues.

For example, veteran treatment courts address legal problems that stem from service-related challenges like PTSD or substance abuse by connecting veterans with the health and social services they need. For young offenders, youth treatment courts provide a structured approach to rehabilitation, using a combination of education, therapy, and supervision.

On the civil side, the business court provides a dedicated forum for complex commercial disputes. This court handles high-stakes cases involving technology, intellectual property, and corporate governance with judges who have specialized expertise in these areas. Created in 1996, the court holds sessions in Raleigh, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, and Greensboro.

North Carolina Courthouses, Sheriff's Offices, Police Departments, Jails, & Prisons

Where to Find Additional Information About North Carolina Courts?

FAQs

Where Should I File for a Divorce?

Divorce cases in North Carolina are filed in the District Court in the county where either spouse resides. Forms and filing instructions are provided by the Judicial Branch, including the Divorce Forms Packet. The clerk's office will accept the completed forms and guide you through the required fees.

Which Court Handles Felony Criminal Charges?

Superior courts handle felony criminal charges. These courts hear serious crimes such as robbery, assault, and drug trafficking.

What Court Should I File Charges in if I Am Being Evicted?

If you are facing eviction, you may respond or file related claims in district court, usually in the magistrate or civil division. You can contest the eviction by filing an answer or motion with the court, attending the scheduled hearing, and presenting evidence.

How To Sue Someone for Less Than $10,000, Which Court to Use?

Claims under $10,000 can be filed in small claims court (magistrate division of district court). Filing typically involves completing a Money Owed form, paying the filing fee, and attending a scheduled hearing.

Can I Represent Myself in Courts Without an Attorney?

Yes, you may appear pro se and represent yourself in civil, small claims, or even criminal cases. Self-represented litigants must follow all procedural rules, file proper documents, and meet deadlines. The Judicial Branch provides the Self-Representation Packet for those without attorneys.

What Happens if I Miss a Court Date?

Missing a court date in North Carolina can lead to serious consequences, including a Failure to Appear charge, arrest warrant, and potential license suspension. Contact the clerk's office immediately to reschedule and explain your absence.

How Can I File an Appeal if I Disagree With a Court's Decision?

To appeal a decision, file a notice of appeal within 14 days of sentencing in criminal cases or after judgment in civil cases. The process involves submitting the notice to the trial court and serving it to the opposing party.

Are Court Proceedings Open to the Public?

Yes, most court proceedings in North Carolina are open to the public. However, access can be restricted for reasons like security, privacy, or the protection of minors. Always check with the court for specific access rules.

How Long Does It Typically Take for a Case To Be Resolved in the Trial Court?

The timeline for a case in a North Carolina trial court varies greatly. While some small claims cases may resolve in 30 days, complex civil and criminal cases can take a year or more. The duration depends on factors like the case's complexity, the discovery process, court calendars, and whether a settlement is reached.

How Can I File a Complaint Against a Judge or Court Staff?

You can file a complaint against a judge or court staff by submitting a completed complaint form to the North Carolina Judicial Standards Commission. You can download or submit forms electronically.

Can I Access Court Hearings Remotely, and How?

Yes, many North Carolina courts offer remote hearings via WebEx. Public access is typically provided through a link or access code included in the Notice of Hearing. Per court instructions, participants need a device with internet and camera capabilities. Recording is prohibited.

Are There Specific Courts That Handle Environmental or Business Disputes?

Yes, North Carolina has specialized courts for complex cases. Business court handles complex commercial disputes, including business and financial matters. For environmental issues, cases may be addressed in the superior court or through specific statutes.

Can I Access Court Records for Free?

In counties participating in eCourts, you can access basic case information online for free through the eCourts Portal. For detailed records or documents, you may need to contact the local clerk's office, and fees may apply.

How Can I Search North Carolina Court Records by Name?

You can search for court records by name, case number, or attorney through the eCourts Portal. For counties not using eCourts, visit the local clerk's office or their website for search options.

How Far Back Do Online North Carolina Public Court Records Go?

Online access to court records varies by county. Records are generally available from the implementation date of the eCourts system. For historical records, you may need to contact the local clerk's office directly.

Are Civil and Criminal Case Records Accessed Through the Same Online System?

Yes, both civil and criminal case records can be accessed via the Remote Public Access (RPA) system, which covers all 100 counties in North Carolina. Users can search cases, view filings, and perform statewide criminal background checks online.

Is There a Way To Be Notified of Updates to a Court Case I'm Following?

Yes, some counties provide notifications for case updates via email or text. This service alerts parties to new court dates, changes in schedule, or other relevant events. Contact your local clerk's office or check the court's website to sign up.

Are Probate and Family Court Records (e.g., Divorce, Custody) Fully Public?

Most probate and family court records are public. However, sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers or minor children's identities, may be redacted or sealed to protect privacy. Access can vary depending on the case and applicable confidentiality rules.

Can I Request Redacted Copies of Court Records That Contain Sensitive Information?

Yes, you may request copies of court records with confidential information removed. Courts or clerks can redact sensitive data before providing records. If a record is fully confidential, it may not be released.

Can I Request Bulk Access To Court Records or Data for Research Purposes?

Yes, the NCAOC (North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts) allows researchers to request bulk data extracts from the RPA system. These extracts provide selected case information for analysis, without disclosing fully confidential details. You can find more information on the RPA Extract Access page.

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