Court records in Chatham County, North Carolina, can be searched through several channels. ChathamNCCourt.us can help you find publicly available information about court cases filed in Chatham County. You can also access records through official North Carolina Judicial Branch resources, the Clerk of Superior Court's office at the courthouse, and public-access terminals available on site. Online tools, in-person visits, and mail requests each offer different levels of detail and turnaround time.
Chatham Court System & Jurisdictions
Chatham County is part of North Carolina's Judicial District 15B. Court operations are housed at the Chatham County Courthouse in Pittsboro. Understanding which court handles your case type is essential for searching the right docket.
Superior Court
- Felony criminal cases
- Civil cases where the amount in controversy exceeds $25,000
- Appeals from District Court
- Land condemnation and other equity matters
District Court
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Civil cases involving $25,000 or less
- Family law matters — divorce, child custody, child support, domestic violence protective orders
- Juvenile proceedings (delinquency, abuse, neglect, dependency)
Small Claims (Magistrate Court)
- Civil disputes of $10,000 or less
- Summary ejectment (eviction) actions
- Actions to recover personal property
Estates & Special Proceedings
The Clerk of Superior Court acts as judge for probate and estate matters, guardianship proceedings, foreclosures, and certain special proceedings. These records are maintained separately from the criminal and civil dockets.
Traffic Court
Infractions and traffic-related misdemeanors are typically heard in District Court. Waivable infractions may be resolved without a court appearance, but the case still appears on the court calendar.
Divorce certificates can be obtained from NC Vital Records or from the Clerk of Court in the county where the divorce was filed.
Chatham Court Calendar & Upcoming Hearings
North Carolina publishes court calendars through the Judicial Branch website. To find today's, tomorrow's, or this week's scheduled hearings in Chatham County:
- Visit the Chatham County page on NCcourts.gov.
- Look for the court calendars section, which provides links to criminal, civil, and family court calendars.
- Select the session type (Superior Court criminal, District Court criminal, civil, family, etc.) and the date range you need.
Calendars are typically posted by the Trial Court Administrator's office and updated as sessions are scheduled. Keep in mind:
- Criminal session calendars may be published a week or more in advance.
- Civil and family calendars may be set further ahead, depending on the session type.
- Magistrate and small claims hearings may not appear on the online calendar — contact the Clerk's office directly for those schedules.
You can also call the courthouse or check the posted calendar in the courthouse lobby for same-day updates.
How to Get a Copy of a Chatham Court Document
Most court records in North Carolina are public unless sealed or otherwise restricted by law. Juvenile records, adoptions, involuntary commitments, and certain domestic violence files are generally not available to the public.
In Person
Visit the Clerk of Superior Court's office at the Chatham County Courthouse. Paper case files can be reviewed and copies made on site. Bring the case number or the full name of a party to help staff locate the file.
By Mail
Send a written request to the Clerk of Superior Court. Include:
- Full case number (if known) or party names and approximate filing date
- Description of the documents you need
- Whether you need certified or uncertified copies
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
- Payment by check or money order made payable to "Chatham County Clerk of Court"
Online
You can request a public record through the NC Judicial Branch website. Some case index information may be available through the statewide Odyssey Portal. Full document images may still require an in-person visit or mailed request.
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
- Uncertified copies are standard photocopies suitable for personal reference.
- Certified copies carry the Clerk's seal and signature, confirming authenticity. These are typically required for legal filings, background checks, or use in another court.
For criminal background checks, the NC Administrative Office of the Courts offers a statewide criminal record search. The NC Department of Adult Correction offender search provides information on individuals currently in state prison or on probation/parole.
Chatham Court Records Fees & Payment
Fees for court record copies in North Carolina are set by statute (N.C. General Statutes § 7A-308 and § 7A-311). The following table reflects standard fees that apply in Chatham County. Confirm current amounts with the Clerk's office, as fees may be updated by legislative action.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Uncertified copy (per page) | $0.25 |
| Certified copy — first page | $3.00 |
| Certified copy — each additional page | $0.25 |
| Certification of a document (no copy made) | $3.00 |
| Statewide criminal record search (AOC) | Varies; check with AOC |
Payment Methods
- In person: Cash, check, or money order. Some clerk offices accept credit or debit cards — confirm with the Chatham County Clerk before visiting.
- By mail: Check or money order payable to "Chatham County Clerk of Court."
There is no charge to view paper files at the Clerk's office during regular business hours. Fees apply only when copies are made or certifications are requested.