Robeson County Court Records
What Is Robeson County Court Records
Court records in Robeson County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of case-related information maintained by the courts pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 7A-109, which mandates the proper keeping of court records.
Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and petitions
- Court dockets listing scheduled hearings and proceedings
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Transcripts of court proceedings
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during trials
- Sentencing and disposition records
- Probation and parole documentation
These records are distinct from other public records maintained by Robeson County, such as property records, vital statistics (birth, death, marriage certificates), and tax records, which are typically maintained by the Robeson County Register of Deeds or other county departments.
In Robeson County, court records are maintained by various courts within the North Carolina Judicial Branch, including:
- Superior Court (felony criminal cases, civil cases over $25,000)
- District Court (misdemeanors, civil cases under $25,000, family law)
- Small Claims Court (civil disputes under $10,000)
- Juvenile Court (cases involving minors)
- Probate Court (wills, estates, guardianships)
The North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts oversees the management and accessibility of these records through the North Carolina Judicial Branch system.
Are Court Records Public In Robeson County
Court records in Robeson County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with North Carolina's 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 public documents available for inspection by any person.
The following court records are typically available for public access:
- Civil case files and dockets
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Judgments and court orders
- Hearing schedules and calendars
- Property records related to court proceedings
- Marriage and divorce records
However, certain categories of court records may be restricted or sealed pursuant to statutory provisions or judicial orders. These exceptions include:
- Juvenile court records (protected under N.C.G.S. § 7B-2901)
- Adoption proceedings
- Mental health commitment records
- Certain domestic violence cases
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Grand jury proceedings
- Cases involving minors as victims of certain crimes
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina (which includes Robeson County) are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system rather than county or state repositories.
The North Carolina Supreme Court has established rules governing public access to court records through the Rules of Recordkeeping, which standardize practices across all county courts in the state.
How To Find Court Records in Robeson County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Robeson County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining court records:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Robeson County Clerk of Superior Court's office during regular business hours.
- Complete a records request form specifying the case number, party names, or other identifying information.
- Present valid photo identification.
- Pay applicable copy fees ($0.25 per page for standard copies).
- For certified copies, additional fees apply ($3.00 per certification).
Robeson County Courthouse
500 North Elm St, Room 101
Lumberton, NC 28359
910-671-3000
Robeson County Courthouse
Written Requests:
- Submit a written request to the Clerk of Court including:
- Case number or party names
- Specific documents requested
- Contact information
- Self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
- Payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
Mail requests to:
Robeson County Clerk of Superior Court
PO Box 1084
Lumberton, NC 28359
Electronic Requests:
- Access the North Carolina Court System's online portal.
- Register for an account if required.
- Search for cases using party names, case numbers, or filing dates.
- Request electronic copies of available documents.
- Pay applicable fees through the secure online payment system.
For specialized records such as criminal background checks, requestors must submit fingerprints and complete the appropriate forms through the State Bureau of Investigation. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 15A-150, certain expunged records are not available through standard public access channels.
How To Look Up Court Records in Robeson County Online?
Robeson County court records can be accessed through several online platforms maintained by the North Carolina Judicial Branch. These digital resources provide convenient access to various court documents and case information:
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:
- Criminal and infraction cases
- Civil cases
- Traffic citations
- Enter search criteria such as name, case number, or citation number.
- Review search results and select specific cases for detailed information.
- Pay applicable fees for document copies if required.
North Carolina Business Court Records:
- Access the Business Court's electronic filing system.
- Search by party name, case number, or attorney.
- View publicly available documents in business-related litigation.
Criminal Background Check Portal:
- Visit the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts website.
- Select "Criminal Background Check" option.
- Create an account or log in to existing account.
- Enter subject's name and other identifying information.
- Pay the required fee ($25 per name search).
- Receive results electronically.
Remote Public Access (RPA) System:
- Register for an account with the North Carolina Judicial Branch.
- Log in to the secure portal.
- Search for cases by name, case number, or filing date.
- Access available documents and case information.
- Pay applicable fees for document retrieval.
It should be noted that while many records are available online, certain documents may only be accessible through in-person requests at the Robeson County Courthouse due to technical limitations or confidentiality restrictions. Additionally, the most recent court filings may experience a processing delay before appearing in online systems.
How To Search Robeson County Court Records for Free?
North Carolina law provides for free public inspection of court records pursuant to 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." In accordance with this statutory provision, Robeson County offers several options for accessing court records without charge:
In-Person Inspection:
- Visit the Robeson County Courthouse during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM).
- Request to view specific case files at the Clerk of Court's public terminal.
- Present identification and complete any required request forms.
- Examine records under staff supervision at no cost.
- Note that while inspection is free, obtaining copies incurs standard fees.
Public Access Terminals:
- Use the public access computer terminals located in the courthouse lobby.
- Search for cases by name, case number, or filing date.
- View basic case information including party names, charges, hearing dates, and disposition.
- Access is provided at no charge during regular business hours.
Online Resources:
- The North Carolina Court System offers limited free online access to:
- Criminal case information (excluding sensitive details)
- Civil case dockets (basic information only)
- Court calendars and hearing schedules
- Traffic citation status
- Navigate to the Judicial Branch website and select "Court Records."
- Use the basic search functions that do not require payment.
Law Library Access:
- Visit the Robeson County Law Library located within the courthouse.
- Access legal research terminals with connections to court databases.
- Obtain assistance from law library staff for navigating record systems.
While these free options provide access to basic case information, comprehensive searches or obtaining document copies typically require payment of statutory fees. Additionally, certain specialized searches, such as criminal background checks or certified copies, always incur mandatory fees established by state law.
What's Included in a Robeson County Court Record?
Court records in Robeson County contain various documents and information depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. Pursuant to the North Carolina Rules of Recordkeeping, these records typically include the following components:
Civil Case Records:
- Complaint or petition initiating the action
- Summons and proof of service
- Answers and counterclaims
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Discovery documents filed with the court
- Affidavits and declarations
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts (when prepared)
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Settlement agreements filed with the court
- Appeal documentation
Criminal Case Records:
- Charging documents (indictments, information, complaints)
- Arrest warrants and returns
- Bond and bail information
- Plea agreements
- Motions and responses
- Court orders
- Sentencing documents
- Probation reports filed with the court
- Judgment and commitment orders
- Appeal notices and briefs
- Expungement orders (restricted access)
Family Court Records:
- Divorce petitions and decrees
- Child custody and support orders
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Paternity determinations
- Adoption proceedings (often sealed)
- Guardian ad litem reports
- Financial affidavits
- Parenting plans
- Mediation agreements
Probate Records:
- Wills and codicils
- Petitions for probate
- Letters testamentary or administration
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Accountings
- Distribution orders
- Guardianship documents
Each court record also contains a case docket sheet that chronologically lists all actions taken in the case, including filings, hearings, and judicial rulings. This docket serves as the official index to the case file and provides a comprehensive overview of the proceedings.
It should be noted that while these documents are typically included in court records, certain sensitive information may be redacted pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 132-1.10, which protects personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and dates of birth.
How Long Does Robeson County Keep Court Records?
Robeson County adheres to the North Carolina Judicial Branch Records Retention Schedule, which establishes standardized timeframes for maintaining various court documents. These retention periods are mandated by the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7A-109(d), which authorizes the establishment of records management programs for court documents.
The current retention schedule includes the following timeframes:
Criminal Case Records:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention for murder and Class A felonies; 20 years after disposition for other felonies
- Misdemeanor cases: 10 years after disposition
- Infractions: 5 years after disposition
- Expunged records: Immediately destroyed pursuant to court order
Civil Case Records:
- General civil cases: 10 years after disposition
- Small claims: 5 years after judgment
- Domestic relations cases: 25 years after disposition
- Juvenile proceedings: Until subject reaches age 21, then sealed
- Adoption records: Permanently maintained but sealed
- Mental health commitments: 10 years after discharge
Probate Records:
- Wills: Permanently maintained
- Estate administration: 10 years after estate closed
- Guardianships: 10 years after termination of guardianship
- Special proceedings: 10 years after disposition
Court Administrative Records:
- Court calendars: 2 years
- Jury lists and records: 2 years
- Judge's notes: Not considered official records; may be destroyed at judge's discretion
- Recordings of proceedings: 1 year after transcript prepared or 10 years if no transcript
After the designated retention period expires, records may be transferred to the North Carolina State Archives for permanent preservation if deemed to have historical significance. Otherwise, they may be destroyed in accordance with approved disposition procedures.
It is important to note that while physical records may be destroyed after the retention period, many modern court records are maintained in electronic format indefinitely through the North Carolina Judicial Branch's digital archiving system.
Types of Courts In Robeson County
Robeson County's judicial system operates as part of North Carolina's unified court structure, with several levels of courts serving different jurisdictional functions:
Robeson County Superior Court
500 North Elm Street, Room 101
Lumberton, NC 28359
910-671-3000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Robeson County Superior Court
Superior Court is the highest trial court in Robeson County, handling felony criminal cases, civil matters involving claims exceeding $25,000, and appeals from District Court. Superior Court sessions are presided over by rotating judges who travel within judicial districts.
Robeson County District Court
500 North Elm Street, Room 101
Lumberton, NC 28359
910-671-3000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Robeson County District Court
District Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, preliminary hearings for felonies, civil cases involving claims up to $25,000, family law matters, juvenile proceedings, and traffic violations. District Court judges are elected to serve within their district.
Robeson County Small Claims Court
500 North Elm Street, Room 101
Lumberton, NC 28359
910-671-3000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Robeson County Small Claims Court
Small Claims Court is a division of District Court that handles civil disputes involving claims up to $10,000. These proceedings are less formal and are presided over by magistrates.
Robeson County Clerk of Superior Court
500 North Elm Street, Room 101
Lumberton, NC 28359
910-671-3000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Robeson County Clerk of Court
The Clerk of Superior Court has jurisdiction over probate matters, guardianships, adoptions, and certain special proceedings. The Clerk also maintains all court records and provides administrative support to the courts.
North Carolina Court of Appeals
One West Morgan Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-831-3600
North Carolina Court of Appeals
The Court of Appeals reviews cases appealed from Robeson County courts for legal errors. This intermediate appellate court sits in panels of three judges.
North Carolina Supreme Court
2 East Morgan Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-831-5700
North Carolina Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the state's highest court and has discretionary authority to review decisions from the Court of Appeals and certain cases directly appealed from trial courts.
This hierarchical structure ensures that cases are heard in the appropriate forum based on their nature and complexity, with avenues for appeal to higher courts when necessary.
What Types of Cases Do Robeson County Courts Hear?
Robeson County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters according to their jurisdictional authority as established by North Carolina law. The distribution of case types among the various courts is as follows:
Superior Court Cases:
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Civil actions involving claims exceeding $25,000
- Appeals from District Court decisions
- Constitutional challenges to state laws
- Complex business litigation
- Medical malpractice claims
- Land title disputes and eminent domain proceedings
- Administrative agency appeals
- Post-conviction relief petitions
District Court Cases:
- Misdemeanor criminal offenses
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
- Civil disputes involving claims up to $25,000
- Domestic relations matters (divorce, alimony, equitable distribution)
- Child custody and support proceedings
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Juvenile delinquency and dependency cases
- Involuntary commitment proceedings
- Traffic violations and DWI/DUI offenses
- Landlord-tenant disputes
Small Claims Court Cases:
- Civil actions involving claims up to $10,000
- Summary ejectment (eviction) proceedings
- Recovery of personal property
- Motor vehicle damage claims
- Consumer disputes
- Contract disagreements
- Debt collection matters
Clerk of Superior Court Jurisdiction:
- Probate of wills
- Estate administration
- Guardianships for minors and incompetent adults
- Adoptions
- Foreclosures
- Partitions of real property
- Name changes
- Legitimations
The allocation of cases to specific courts is governed by N.C.G.S. § 7A-240 through § 7A-259, which establish the jurisdictional framework for North Carolina's unified court system. This structure ensures that matters are heard by judicial officials with appropriate authority and expertise while providing litigants with forums suited to the complexity and significance of their legal issues.
How To Find a Court Docket In Robeson County
Court dockets in Robeson County provide essential information about scheduled court proceedings, including hearing dates, case numbers, party names, and assigned courtrooms. Members of the public may access these dockets through several methods:
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the North Carolina Judicial Branch website.
- Select "Court Calendars" from the available options.
- Choose Robeson County from the county dropdown menu.
- Select the court type (Superior, District, etc.).
- Specify the date range for the desired calendar.
- Review the published docket information.
Courthouse Electronic Display Boards:
- Visit the Robeson County Courthouse during business hours.
- Locate the electronic display boards in the main lobby.
- Review daily court schedules organized by courtroom and judge.
- Note that these displays show only the current day's proceedings.
Clerk of Court's Office:
- Request docket information at the Clerk's public service counter.
- Provide case number or party names if seeking specific case information.
- Request to view printed court calendars for upcoming sessions.
- Printed copies of dockets are available for a nominal fee.
Automated Telephone System:
- Call the Robeson County Courthouse at 910-671-3000.
- Follow prompts to access the automated court calendar system.
- Enter case number or citation number when prompted.
- Receive information about next scheduled court date.
Attorney Access:
- Attorneys registered with the North Carolina Courts Electronic Filing System (NCEFS) can access comprehensive docket information through their secure portal.
- This system provides case management tools and automated notifications of schedule changes.
Court dockets are typically published one to two weeks in advance of scheduled proceedings, though emergency hearings and special sessions may be added with shorter notice. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 7A-49.4, criminal case calendaring follows specific statutory requirements designed to promote efficiency and fairness in scheduling.
It should be noted that court schedules are subject to change due to continuances, settlements, or other procedural developments. Individuals with business before the court are advised to verify hearing dates shortly before their scheduled appearance.
Which Courts in Robeson County Are Not Courts of Record?
In the North Carolina judicial system, including Robeson County, courts are classified as either "courts of record" or "courts not of record" based on whether they maintain comprehensive verbatim transcripts of proceedings and follow formal rules of procedure. This distinction is established under N.C.G.S. § 7A-190 and related statutes.
Courts Not of Record in Robeson County:
Small Claims Court is the primary court not of record in Robeson County. As a division of District Court, Small Claims Court has the following characteristics:
- Proceedings are presided over by magistrates rather than judges
- Formal rules of evidence are relaxed
- Verbatim transcripts are not routinely created
- Proceedings are summary in nature
- Representation by attorneys is optional
- Judgments may be appealed to District Court for trial de novo (new trial)
- Maximum jurisdictional amount is $10,000
Small Claims Court Location:
Robeson County Courthouse
500 North Elm Street, Room 101
Lumberton, NC 28359
910-671-3000
Robeson County Small Claims Court
Characteristics of Courts of Record in Robeson County:
By contrast, Superior Court and District Court are courts of record with the following features:
- Proceedings are recorded by court reporters or electronic means
- Formal rules of evidence and procedure are strictly observed
- Complete case files are maintained
- Judgments and orders are formally entered
- Appeals are based on the official record rather than de novo trials
- Judges must be licensed attorneys
The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is significant for several reasons:
- Appeals process: Appeals from courts not of record result in entirely new trials rather than reviews of legal errors.
- Precedential value: Decisions from courts of record may have precedential weight in future cases.
- Evidentiary standards: Courts of record apply formal rules of evidence more stringently.
- Formality of proceedings: Courts of record follow more structured procedural requirements.
This two-tiered approach allows for efficient resolution of minor disputes in a less formal setting while ensuring that more complex or serious matters receive the full procedural protections of courts of record.
Lookup Court Records in Robeson County
Robeson County Judicial Information