Court records in Carteret County, North Carolina, can be searched through several channels. CarteretCourt.us can help you find publicly available information about court cases filed in the county. You can also access records through the North Carolina Judicial Branch's Carteret County page, the Clerk of Superior Court's office in Beaufort, and public-access terminals located inside the courthouse.
Carteret Court System & Jurisdictions
Carteret County is part of North Carolina Judicial District 3B. Court proceedings take place at the Carteret County Courthouse in Beaufort. Two main trial-level courts operate in the county:
Superior Court
- Felony criminal cases
- Civil cases where the amount in controversy exceeds $25,000
- Appeals from District Court
- Real property disputes and equity matters
District Court
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Infractions, including traffic violations
- Civil cases with amounts in controversy of $25,000 or less
- Small claims actions (filed through a magistrate, with amounts up to $10,000)
- Family law matters — divorce, child custody, child support, domestic violence protective orders
- Juvenile proceedings
- Estates and special proceedings handled by the Clerk of Superior Court sitting as judge of probate
Magistrates in Carteret County issue arrest and search warrants, set initial bail, accept guilty pleas for minor infractions, and hear small claims cases. The Sheriff's Office Civil & Warrant Division serves and executes legal processes generated by the courts.
If you are unsure which court division handled a case, start by searching on the NC Courts court records portal, which covers both Superior and District Court filings statewide.
Carteret Court Calendar & Upcoming Hearings
The North Carolina Judicial Branch publishes court calendars online. To find today's, tomorrow's, or this week's scheduled hearings in Carteret County:
- Go to the NC Courts Court Dates search page.
- Enter the party's name or select "Carteret" from the county dropdown.
- Choose a date range to see upcoming sessions for criminal, civil, or family court.
Calendars are also posted at the Carteret County courthouse location page, which includes contact information for the Clerk's office if you need to confirm a specific hearing time. You can also call the Clerk of Court directly at (252) 504-4400 to ask about court dates and scheduling changes.
Keep in mind that calendars can shift on short notice. Checking the online calendar the day before your court date — or calling the Clerk's office that morning — is a practical way to avoid surprises.
How to Get a Copy of a Carteret Court Document
The Carteret County Clerk of Superior Court maintains official case files for both Superior and District Court matters. You can request copies in person, by mail, or in some situations through the NC Judicial Branch public records request process.
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
- Uncertified copies — suitable for personal reference. These do not carry the Clerk's seal or attestation.
- Certified copies — required when you need to present a court document to another court, a government agency, or for official legal purposes. The Clerk's office stamps and signs these to verify authenticity.
Steps to Request a Document
- Identify the case number, party names, or case type. Having the file number speeds up retrieval significantly.
- Visit the Clerk's office in person or send a written request by mail.
- Specify whether you need a certified or uncertified copy.
- Pay the applicable fee at the time of the request.
Mailing Address
For incident reports, arrest reports, or jail booking records, contact the Carteret County Sheriff's Office at (252) 728-8400 or submit a public records request through the county website. Divorce verifications can also be obtained through NC Vital Records.
Older or archived records may require additional processing time. Ask the Clerk's office about turnaround when you submit your request.
Carteret Court Records Fees & Payment
Fees for court document copies and certifications in North Carolina are set by statute (N.C.G.S. § 7A-308). The table below reflects the standard fee schedule applicable in Carteret County:
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Uncertified copy (per page) | $0.25 |
| Certified copy of a court document (first page) | $3.00 |
| Certified copy (each additional page) | $0.25 |
| Certification / attestation (per certificate) | $3.00 |
| Search fee (per name, per 10-year period) | $25.00 |
Payment methods: The Clerk's office generally accepts cash, checks, and money orders. If mailing a request, include a check or money order payable to "Carteret County Clerk of Superior Court." Contact the office at (252) 504-4400 to confirm accepted payment methods before visiting or mailing.
Some records — such as sealed juvenile files, certain mental health proceedings, and adoption records — are restricted by North Carolina law and may not be available to the general public. If you are unsure whether a record is accessible, ask the Clerk's office before paying any fees.