Although the concept of adopting new technologies in the North Carolina Judicial System was on a list of priorities for years, the Covid pandemic pushed that timeline along. In 2023, the North Carolina Courts adopted an eCourts system that involved a phased adoption by individual counties. At the end of 2023, Mecklenburg County was integrated into the eCourts system. The goal is to have all of the counties in North Carolina integrated into the eCourts system by 2025.

The eCourts system in North Carolina has two primary programs of use in family law matters: the eFiling (File & Serve) and the eCourts Portal. The eFiling system allows attorneys and self-represented parties to file pleadings with the Court, among a number of other tasks traditionally requiring a trip to clerk’s window at the courthouse. The eCourts Portal allows the general public and registered users to access important court information such as filed documents and court hearings. To learn more, click here.

With the adoption of the eCourts system statewide, access to justice has become more convenient, more efficient, and more cost effective. As Modern Legal’s Virtual Attorney, I have the ability to represent any client in any corner of North Carolina, especially in the legal deserts created by distance and lack of socio-economic resources. Through my virtual representation, I am able to file pleadings and advocate for my client’s needs without ever stepping foot inside the courthouse. I can also pull the “court file” via the internet and maintain the most up to date information from the Courts to provide quality legal representation to clients.

While growing pains will be a very real experience, I have confidence that the increased access to justice for all those in need of quality family law legal services will have positive ripple effects not only for our local town but for the entire community of North Carolina.

If you or someone you care about is looking for a Virtual Family Law Attorney to assist with the eCourts process in family law matters, our Modern Legal Team is here to help.

Please note: these educational materials are based on North Carolina law where my legal practice is based. While the insights may have wide applicability, readers should consult with an attorney regarding the specific laws in their state or country. 

Written by: Megan S. White