Cabarrus County Court Records
What Is Cabarrus County Court Records
Court records in Cabarrus County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities and decisions as defined under North Carolina General Statutes § 7A-109, which mandates the maintenance of records by clerks of superior court.
Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
- Docket sheets chronicling case events and scheduling
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing and disposition records in criminal matters
- Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
- Probate and estate documentation
These records differ from other public records such as property deeds, birth certificates, and tax assessments, which are maintained by separate county departments rather than the court system.
In Cabarrus County, court records are maintained by several judicial bodies within the North Carolina Judicial Branch, including:
- Superior Court (felony criminal cases, civil matters over $25,000)
- District Court (misdemeanors, civil matters under $25,000, family law)
- Small Claims Court (civil disputes under $10,000)
- Probate Court (wills, estates, guardianships)
These courts generate records for various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, domestic relations matters, traffic violations, and probate proceedings, all of which form part of the official court record.
Are Court Records Public In Cabarrus County
Court records in Cabarrus County are generally accessible to the public pursuant to the North Carolina Public Records Law (N.C.G.S. § 132-1) and the constitutional principle of open courts established in Article I, Section 18 of the North Carolina Constitution. These legal frameworks establish the presumption that court records are open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute or court order.
Records typically available for public access include:
- Civil case files and pleadings
- Criminal case records (post-charging)
- Judgments, orders, and decrees
- Docket sheets and calendars
- Property records related to judgments
- Marriage and divorce records
- Probate files
However, certain records may be restricted from public access, including:
- Juvenile proceedings (pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7B-2901)
- Adoption records
- Mental health commitment proceedings
- Certain domestic violence records
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Grand jury proceedings and materials
- Pre-sentence investigation reports
The North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts establishes policies governing record access in accordance with state law. It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina (which includes Cabarrus County) are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions.
How To Find Court Records in Cabarrus County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Cabarrus County may utilize several methods to locate and obtain these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing court records:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Cabarrus County Clerk of Superior Court's office located at the county courthouse.
- Complete a records request form, providing case number, party names, and filing dates if known.
- Present valid photo identification.
- Pay applicable copy fees ($0.25 per page for standard copies).
- Allow time for staff to retrieve requested records.
Written Requests:
- Submit a detailed written request to the Clerk of Superior Court.
- Include case information, specific documents needed, and contact information.
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope and payment for anticipated copy fees.
- Mail to:
Cabarrus County Clerk of Superior Court
PO Box 70
Concord, NC 28026
704-262-5500
Cabarrus County Courthouse
Online Access:
- Visit the North Carolina Judicial Branch website.
- Navigate to the public records search portal.
- Create a user account if required.
- Enter search criteria such as name, case number, or filing date.
- Review available records and request copies as needed.
For criminal records, the public may also utilize the statewide Criminal Court Information System to search for case information by defendant name, case number, or court date.
Certified copies of court documents require additional fees and must be requested specifically from the Clerk's office. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7A-308, certification fees are currently $5.00 per document in addition to copy costs.
How To Look Up Court Records in Cabarrus County Online?
Cabarrus County court records can be accessed through several online portals maintained by the North Carolina Judicial Branch. These digital resources provide varying levels of information depending on the case type and filing date.
The primary online resources include:
North Carolina Court System Public Records Search:
- Navigate to the North Carolina Judicial Branch website.
- Select "Court Records" from the main menu.
- Choose the appropriate search option based on record type.
- Enter search parameters (name, case number, filing date).
- Review results and select specific cases for more detail.
- Note that some documents may only show docket information rather than full text.
This portal provides access to:
- Criminal case information (excluding expunged records)
- Civil case dockets
- Traffic citations
- Small claims judgments
- Domestic relations case information (limited details)
Criminal Court Information System (CCIS):
- Access the court dates search function.
- Enter defendant name or case number.
- Select Cabarrus County from the jurisdiction dropdown.
- Specify date range if desired.
- Review results showing hearing dates, charges, and case status.
North Carolina Business Court:
- Visit the Business Court website.
- Use the public access portal for business-related litigation.
- Search by party name, attorney, or case number.
- Access full document images for most filings.
Users should be aware that online access has certain limitations:
- Records prior to certain dates may not be digitized
- Some sensitive documents may be viewable only in person
- Document images may not be available for all case types
- User registration may be required for certain search functions
The most comprehensive access to court records, particularly for older cases or those with restricted information, still requires in-person visits to the Cabarrus County Courthouse.
How To Search Cabarrus County Court Records for Free?
North Carolina law provides for free public inspection of court records as established in N.C.G.S. § 132-6, which states that "every person having custody of public records shall permit them to be inspected and examined at reasonable times and under reasonable supervision." This statutory right enables citizens to access Cabarrus County court records without charge through several methods.
Free In-Person Access:
- Visit the Cabarrus County Courthouse during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM).
- Request to inspect specific records at the Clerk of Superior Court's office.
- Provide case information to assist staff in locating records.
- Review documents on-site under staff supervision.
- Note that while inspection is free, copy fees apply if reproductions are requested.
Free Online Resources:
- The North Carolina Court System website offers free basic case information searches.
- The Criminal Court Information System provides free access to criminal case scheduling and basic case information.
- Cabarrus County court information is available without charge through the judicial branch website.
Public Access Terminals:
- Use computer terminals available at the Cabarrus County Courthouse.
- Access the Judicial Branch's internal case management system.
- Search for cases by name, number, or filing date.
- View basic case information and docket entries without charge.
While basic record searches are free, users should be aware of potential costs:
- Document copies: $0.25 per page
- Certified copies: $5.00 certification fee plus copy costs
- Complete case file copies: Variable based on page count
- Specialized searches requiring staff assistance: May incur research fees
Public libraries in Cabarrus County may also offer free internet access to the court system's public websites, providing another no-cost option for basic court record searches.
What's Included in a Cabarrus County Court Record?
Court records in Cabarrus County contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7A-109(a), the clerk of superior court must "maintain such records, files, dockets and indexes as are prescribed by rules of the Director of the Administrative Office of the Courts."
Criminal Case Records Typically Include:
- Charging documents (indictments, information, complaints)
- Arrest warrants and probable cause affidavits
- Bond and pretrial release documentation
- Attorney appearance notices
- Motions and corresponding orders
- Plea agreements
- Trial transcripts (if requested)
- Verdict forms
- Sentencing information
- Probation terms and conditions
- Appeal notices
- Criminal judgment forms
Civil Case Records Typically Include:
- Initial complaints and petitions
- Summonses and proof of service
- Defendant answers and counterclaims
- Discovery-related motions (though discovery materials themselves are rarely filed)
- Dispositive motions (summary judgment, dismissal)
- Affidavits and supporting exhibits
- Court orders and opinions
- Final judgments
- Post-judgment collection documents
- Appeal notices
Domestic Relations Records Typically Include:
- Divorce petitions and decrees
- Child custody and support orders
- Parenting plans
- Financial affidavits
- Property division agreements
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Name change petitions
Probate Records Typically Include:
- Wills and codicils
- Petitions for administration
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Accountings
- Distribution plans
- Guardianship documents
Each court record also contains a docket sheet or case summary that chronologically lists all actions taken in the case, including filings, hearings, and judicial rulings. This serves as an index to the complete case file and provides a procedural history of the litigation.
How Long Does Cabarrus County Keep Court Records?
Cabarrus County adheres to the North Carolina Judicial Branch Records Retention Schedule as established by the Administrative Office of the Courts pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 121-5. This comprehensive schedule determines how long various court documents must be maintained before disposition.
Criminal Case Records:
- Felony case files: Permanent retention for Class A-E felonies
- Lower-level felonies (Class F-I): 20 years after case closure
- Misdemeanor cases: 5-10 years depending on offense type
- Traffic cases: 3 years after final disposition
- Expunged records: Destroyed pursuant to expungement order
Civil Case Records:
- General civil cases: 5-10 years after final disposition
- Small claims judgments: 10 years
- Civil judgments: 10 years (renewable)
- Domestic relations cases: 25 years after final decree
- Juvenile proceedings: Until child reaches age 18, then sealed
- Adoption records: Permanent (sealed)
Probate Records:
- Wills: Permanent retention
- Estate administration: 10 years after estate closed
- Guardianship records: 3 years after termination of guardianship
- Special proceedings: 5 years after final disposition
Court Administrative Records:
- Court calendars: 2 years
- Jury lists and records: 2 years
- Judge's notes: Not official records, disposition at judge's discretion
- Court reporter notes: 5 years (unless transcribed)
The retention schedule makes distinctions based on case significance, with cases of historical or precedential value often designated for permanent retention. Additionally, the Administrative Office of the Courts has implemented digital preservation strategies for electronic records, ensuring long-term access even as physical documents reach their disposition dates.
Records that have met their retention period may be transferred to the North Carolina State Archives for historical preservation if deemed to have enduring value. All other records are destroyed in accordance with secure document disposal protocols.
Types of Courts In Cabarrus County
Cabarrus County's court system operates as part of North Carolina's unified judicial system, with several court types serving different jurisdictional functions. Each court handles specific case types according to state law.
Superior Court
61 Union Street South
Concord, NC 28025
704-262-5500
Cabarrus County Superior Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
Superior Court is Cabarrus County's highest trial court, presided over by rotating superior court judges who serve eight-year terms. This court handles felony criminal cases, civil matters involving claims exceeding $25,000, and appeals from district court. Superior Court trials may be decided by jury.
District Court
61 Union Street South
Concord, NC 28025
704-262-5500
Cabarrus County District Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
District Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, juvenile matters, domestic relations cases, and civil disputes involving claims up to $25,000. District Court judges serve four-year terms and preside over bench trials (without juries) except in certain civil matters.
Small Claims Court
61 Union Street South
Concord, NC 28025
704-262-5500
Cabarrus County Small Claims Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
Small Claims Court, a division of District Court, handles civil disputes involving claims up to $10,000. Cases are heard by magistrates in simplified proceedings designed for self-represented litigants.
Magistrate's Office
30 Corban Avenue SE
Concord, NC 28025
704-262-5500
Hours: 24 hours daily
Magistrates issue arrest and search warrants, conduct initial appearances, set bail, accept guilty pleas for minor offenses, and handle small claims cases. They are appointed by the senior resident superior court judge.
The North Carolina court system follows a hierarchical structure:
- District and Superior Courts (trial level)
- North Carolina Court of Appeals (intermediate appellate court)
- North Carolina Supreme Court (highest state court)
Appeals from Cabarrus County cases typically proceed first to the North Carolina Court of Appeals in Raleigh, with further appeal possible to the North Carolina Supreme Court for cases involving significant legal questions.
What Types of Cases Do Cabarrus County Courts Hear?
Cabarrus County courts adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters according to jurisdictional authority established by North Carolina General Statutes. Each court level is designated to handle specific case types based on subject matter and monetary thresholds.
Superior Court Cases:
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Civil matters involving claims exceeding $25,000
- Appeals from district court decisions
- Property disputes and real estate litigation
- Complex business litigation
- Medical malpractice claims
- Administrative agency appeals
- Constitutional challenges to state laws
- Probate matters contested from clerk's decisions
District Court Cases:
- Misdemeanor criminal offenses
- Traffic violations and DWI/DUI cases
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
- Civil disputes with claims up to $25,000
- Domestic relations matters (divorce, custody, support)
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Juvenile dependency and neglect cases
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Involuntary commitment proceedings
- Landlord-tenant disputes
Small Claims Court Cases:
- Civil disputes with claims up to $10,000
- Landlord eviction proceedings
- Recovery of personal property
- Contract disputes of limited value
- Consumer claims against businesses
- Property damage claims
- Debt collection matters
Magistrate Proceedings:
- Initial appearances for criminal defendants
- Probable cause determinations
- Warrant issuance
- Setting of bail and bond conditions
- Acceptance of guilty pleas for minor infractions
- Small claims trials
- Certain civil ceremonies including marriages
The North Carolina Judicial Branch establishes these jurisdictional boundaries through statutory authority and administrative rules. Case assignment follows these guidelines, with matters occasionally transferred between courts when jurisdictional issues arise.
Specialized court programs in Cabarrus County include Drug Treatment Court, Family Court, and Veterans Treatment Court, which provide alternative approaches to case resolution for eligible participants while maintaining jurisdiction within the established court structure.
How To Find a Court Docket In Cabarrus County
Court dockets in Cabarrus County provide essential information about scheduled court proceedings, including hearing dates, case parties, presiding judges, and courtroom assignments. Members of the public can access these schedules through several methods.
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the North Carolina Judicial Branch website.
- Navigate to the Court Dates search function.
- Select Cabarrus County from the jurisdiction dropdown menu.
- Enter search criteria (date range, party name, or case number).
- Review results showing upcoming court appearances.
- Note that criminal, traffic, and some civil calendars are available online.
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the Cabarrus County Courthouse during business hours.
- Proceed to the appropriate clerk's office based on case type:
- Criminal cases: Criminal Division
- Civil matters: Civil Division
- Family cases: Family Court Division
- Request to view the current court calendar or specific case docket.
- Printed calendars are typically posted near courtroom entrances.
Telephone Information:
- Contact the Clerk of Superior Court's office at 704-262-5500.
- Provide case information to the clerk.
- Request information about upcoming court dates.
- Note that basic scheduling information is available by phone, but detailed docket information may require in-person or online access.
Attorney Access: Attorneys registered with the North Carolina Courts Electronic Filing System (NCEFS) have additional access to docket information through secure portals.
Court dockets are typically published:
- Criminal calendars: One week before court sessions
- Civil motions calendars: Two weeks in advance
- Trial calendars: Published monthly with specific dates
- Daily calendars: Posted each morning at the courthouse
Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7A-49.4, criminal case calendaring follows specific statutory requirements, while civil calendaring is governed by local rules established by the senior resident superior court judge for Cabarrus County.
Which Courts in Cabarrus County Are Not Courts of Record?
In the North Carolina judicial system, including Cabarrus County, the distinction between "courts of record" and "courts not of record" is established by N.C.G.S. § 7A-190 and related statutes. A court of record maintains comprehensive documentation of its proceedings, including verbatim transcripts when requested, while courts not of record maintain more limited documentation.
Courts Not of Record in Cabarrus County:
Small Claims Court, while operating within the district court system, functions as a court not of record. In small claims proceedings:
- Formal rules of evidence are relaxed
- Proceedings are not routinely recorded verbatim
- Magistrates preside rather than district court judges
- Appeals from small claims result in a completely new trial (de novo) in district court
- Documentation is limited to basic orders and judgments
- Simplified procedures are designed for self-represented litigants
Magistrate Proceedings for certain functions also operate as not of record:
- Initial appearances
- Probable cause determinations
- Bond settings
- Acceptance of certain guilty pleas for minor offenses
Courts of Record in Cabarrus County:
- Superior Court (all proceedings)
- District Court (all regular proceedings)
- Family Court (as part of District Court)
- Drug Treatment Court (as part of District Court)
The practical significance of this distinction relates primarily to appeals. When appealing from a court not of record, the case receives a completely new hearing in a court of record rather than a review of the existing record for errors. This provides litigants in small claims matters a second opportunity to present their case if dissatisfied with the magistrate's decision.
According to N.C.G.S. § 7A-271 and § 7A-272, superior and district courts maintain comprehensive records of all proceedings, with court reporters or electronic recording systems capturing verbatim accounts when required by law or requested by parties.