Family Law, Criminal, Civil Litigation, and Estates — Simplified for Real People
When it comes to filing in North Carolina courts, the paperwork can feel overwhelming. Every case — from a simple speeding ticket to a complex custody dispute — requires specific NC AOC forms (NC Administrative Office of the Courts). These are the official documents that keep your case moving through the legal system.
Whether you live in Huntersville, Terrell, Denver, or Charlotte, the same rules and forms apply statewide — but local experience makes all the difference. Understanding which forms to use, how to complete them, and where to file can save you time, money, and unnecessary frustration.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the 40 most commonly used North Carolina AOC forms across four major areas: Family Law, Criminal, Civil Litigation, and Estates & Probate. Each section includes practical tips, plain-English explanations, and quick-reference charts so you can find what you need fast — and file with confidence.
🧭 How to Use This Guide
If you’ve ever tried to navigate the North Carolina court system, you already know how confusing it can be. The AOC forms are designed to make the process uniform across all 100 counties — but figuring out which one you need and how to complete it is another story.
This article breaks the forms into categories, explains what each does, and flags common pitfalls. Whether you’re handling a small claims issue, a custody dispute, or managing an estate, this guide can help you feel more confident and prepared.
👨👩👧👦 Family Law – Top 10 North Carolina AOC Forms
Family law is one of the busiest areas of the North Carolina court system. From divorce and custody to child support and domestic violence protection, the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) has standardized forms to make filing faster and easier. Below are the 10 most commonly used family law forms, explained in plain language.
📋 Top 10 AOC Family Law Forms in North Carolina
| # | Form No. | Official AOC Title | Primary Use | Who Files | Fee? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AOC-CV-100 | Civil Summons | Starts a family case (divorce/custody/support) and triggers service/answer clock | Plaintiff | ✅ | Listed under Civil Forms (p. 14). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 2 | AOC-CV-750 | Domestic Civil Action Cover Sheet | Identifies the domestic case type | Plaintiff/Attorney | ❌ | Required with most new domestic filings (p. 28). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 3 | AOC-CV-609 | Affidavit as to Status of Minor Child | UCCJEA information for custody | Parent/Party | ❌ | Required in custody matters (Civil Forms list). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 4 | AOC-CV-632 | Motion and Order to Waive Custody Mediation | Requests waiver of mandatory custody mediation | Either parent | ❌ | Mediation series at p. 25 (CV-630/631/632 block). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 5 | AOC-CV-631 | Order Approving Parenting Agreement | Court approval of consent parenting plan | Court (submitted by parties) | ❌ | P. 25 (mediation/parenting-agreement forms). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 6 | AOC-CV-627 / CV-628 / CV-629 | Child Support Worksheets A / B / C | Calculates Guideline support (primary/shared/split) | Both parties or counsel | ❌ | Worksheet set on p. 25–26. NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 7 | AOC-CV-600 | Motion and Notice of Hearing for Modification of Child Support Order | Modify support for substantial change | Parent/Attorney | ✅ | Child-support motion (p. 28–29). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 8 | AOC-CV-642 | Order Establishing Child Support | Court’s support order | Court (submitted by parties) | ❌ | Support order form (p. 26). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 9 | AOC-CV-601 (plus CV-602/603 as needed) | Motion & Order to Show Cause / Order to Appear / Commitment (Support) | Enforce support via contempt | Aggrieved party | ❌ | Support enforcement packet (p. 28–29). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
| 10 | AOC-CV-303 / 304 / 305 / 306 | DVPO Complaint & Motion / Ex Parte / Notice / Protective Order | Domestic Violence Protective Order | Victim (or parent for minor) | ❌ | DVPO series (p. 20–21). NCAOC Forms Report July-Decembe… |
💡 Practice Tips for Family Filings
- 📨 Service matters. Use the sheriff’s office for first-time service in divorce or custody cases unless both parties accept service in writing.
- 🧑⚖️ Mediation required. Custody cases in counties such as Mecklenburg and Iredell require court-ordered mediation before trial. Check your local rules.
- 👩💼 Parenting coordinators. In high-conflict cases, judges may appoint a Parenting Coordinator to help implement custody orders.
- 📁 Keep organized. Maintain a binder or digital folder with all stamped copies, orders, and correspondence — future modifications will be easier and faster.
Family law filings can be emotional and complicated, but understanding the paperwork helps you stay in control. If you need help completing or filing these forms, Adkins Law, PLLC provides professional, compassionate representation throughout Huntersville, Lake Norman, and surrounding areas.e forms, Adkins Law, PLLC can help you ensure accuracy, compliance, and confidence every step of the way.
⚖️ Criminal Law – Top 10 North Carolina AOC Forms
North Carolina’s criminal court process moves fast — from initial arrest through trial, dozens of AOC (Administrative Office of the Courts) forms guide each step. Whether you’re a defendant, attorney, or family member trying to understand the paperwork, this chart covers the 10 most common criminal forms used in District and Superior Court.
📋 Top 10 AOC Criminal Law Forms in North Carolina
| 🔢 Rank / Form No. | 📄 Form Name | ⚙️ Primary Use | 👤 Initiated By | ✅ Mandatory? | 🗒️ Notes (Timing / Rights) |
|---|
| 1️⃣ AOC-CR-100 | Warrant for Arrest | Authorizes law enforcement to arrest a defendant upon probable cause. | Magistrate or judge. | ✅ Yes (for arrest cases). | Official arrest warrant; requires sworn statement of facts supporting probable cause. |
| 2️⃣ AOC-CR-113 | Criminal Summons | Orders a defendant to appear in court without being arrested. | Magistrate, law enforcement officer, or prosecutor. | ✅ Yes (when arrest not required). | Lists the criminal charge(s) and court date; must be personally served. |
| 3️⃣ AOC-CR-116 | Magistrate’s Order | Used to formally charge a defendant and record probable cause for custody or release. | Magistrate. | ✅ Yes (for charging/arrest record). | Common in misdemeanor and initial charging cases; distinct from the arrest warrant. |
| 4️⃣ AOC-CR-200 | Conditions of Release and Release Order | Specifies the defendant’s release conditions pending trial. | Magistrate or judge. | ✅ Yes (when defendant released). | Details restrictions like no-contact, electronic monitoring, or curfew. |
| 5️⃣ AOC-CR-201 | Appearance Bond for Pretrial Release | Records bond type, amount, and any surety information. | Magistrate or judge. | ✅ Yes (when bond is set). | Used with CR-200; covers secured, unsecured, or cash bonds. |
| 6️⃣ AOC-CR-226 / AOC-CR-227 | Affidavit of Indigency / Waiver of Counsel | Determines indigency for appointed counsel or records waiver of right to counsel. | Defendant. | ✅ Yes (for all defendants). | CR-226 is for indigency; CR-227 documents waiver of counsel. Must be explained in open court. |
| 7️⃣ AOC-CR-405 | Waiver of Jury Trial (Superior Court) | Allows a defendant to waive trial by jury and request a bench trial. | Defendant (with attorney and court approval). | ⚙️ Optional. | Must be signed by both the defendant and the presiding judge. |
| 8️⃣ AOC-CR-410 | Motion and Order to Continue | Requests a new court date due to conflict, unavailability, or other good cause. | Defense or State. | ⚙️ Optional. | Must state specific reasons for continuance; court discretion applies. |
| 9️⃣ AOC-G-100 | Subpoena | Compels witnesses to appear or produce records or evidence. | Attorney, clerk, or judge. | ✅ Yes (for witness testimony). | Must be properly served; failure to comply can result in contempt. |
| 🔟 AOC-CR-271 | Implied Consent Offense Notice | Advises DWI defendants of rights related to breath/blood testing and refusal consequences. | Law enforcement officer or magistrate. | ✅ Yes (for DWI arrests). | Must be read aloud; defendant’s signature confirms advisement under G.S. 20-16.2. |
💡 Practice Tips for Criminal Cases
- 🕐 First Appearance Timeline:
Defendants must be brought before a magistrate or judge within 48 hours of arrest (or the next business day). This hearing determines bond and rights advisement. - 📂 Discovery Requests:
Defense attorneys should promptly file a discovery request after arraignment to obtain police reports, witness statements, and video evidence. - 🎥 Recording Advisements:
Many counties now record first appearances and advisements. Always confirm that a record exists if there is later dispute about notice or waiver of counsel. - ⚖️ Bond Modifications:
If bail is excessive or conditions are too restrictive, a written Motion to Modify Bond can be filed using supplemental AOC forms.
Understanding these criminal forms helps defendants and families avoid costly mistakes, missed court dates, or rights violations. If you’ve been charged or are helping someone navigate the system, Adkins Law, PLLC can guide you through each step — from bond hearings to trial.
💼 Civil Litigation – Top 10 North Carolina AOC Forms
Civil litigation in North Carolina covers everything from breach of contract to property disputes and evictions. Each case follows a standardized process built on AOC (Administrative Office of the Courts) forms that guide how parties file, serve, schedule, and resolve lawsuits.
Below are the 10 most commonly used civil litigation AOC forms, updated for 2025 and explained in plain English.
📋 Top 10 AOC Civil Litigation Forms in North Carolina
| 🔢 Rank / Form No. | 📄 Form Name | ⚙️ Primary Use | 👤 Who Files | 💵 Filing Fee? | 🗒️ Notes (Deadlines / Rules) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ AOC-CV-100 | Civil Summons | Officially starts a civil action and notifies the defendant of the lawsuit. | Plaintiff or attorney. | ✅ Yes. | Must be served within 60 days; renew with alias/pluries if unserved. Starts the 30-day answer clock. |
| 2️⃣ AOC-CV-751 | Civil Action Cover Sheet (Non-Domestic) | Identifies the nature of the civil case (contract, negligence, property, etc.) for court assignment. | Plaintiff or attorney. | ❌ No. | Required for nearly all new Superior and District Court civil filings. |
| 3️⃣ AOC-CV-117 | Motion and Order to Extend Time | Requests more time to file an answer, response, or discovery materials. | Either party. | ❌ No. | Must be filed before the original deadline expires; commonly used early in cases. |
| 4️⃣ AOC-CV-220 / CV-221 | Motion & Order for Entry of Default / Default Judgment | Requests a default judgment when a defendant fails to respond. | Plaintiff or attorney. | ✅ Yes (standard filing). | Clerk may enter default; judge determines damages or equitable relief. |
| 5️⃣ AOC-CV-501 | Motion for Summary Judgment (and Notice) | Seeks judgment without trial when there are no disputed facts. | Either party. | ❌ No. | Must be served ≥ 10 days before the hearing (Rule 56). Attach affidavits and exhibits. |
| 6️⃣ AOC-CV-309 | Notice of Hearing (Civil) | Officially notifies all parties of upcoming hearing details. | Any filing party. | ❌ No. | Must comply with local scheduling rules; attach Certificate of Service. |
| 7️⃣ AOC-G-100 / CV-504 | Subpoena (Civil) — Testimony or Production | Compels witness appearance or production of records or evidence. | Attorney or self-represented party. | ❌ No. | Must include date/time and be properly served. Ignoring a subpoena may lead to contempt. |
| 8️⃣ AOC-CV-405 | Voluntary Dismissal (Rule 41) | Ends a case voluntarily before judgment. | Plaintiff or attorney. | ❌ No. | May refile within one year under Rule 41(a). Must notify all parties. |
| 9️⃣ AOC-CVM-201 | Magistrate Summons (Small Claims) | Begins a small-claims case such as eviction, debt, or property recovery. | Plaintiff / Landlord / Creditor. | ✅ Yes (small fee). | Served by sheriff; hearing usually within 7–10 days. |
| 🔟 AOC-CVM-205 | Complaint in Summary Ejectment (Eviction) | Used by landlords to remove tenants and regain possession. | Landlord or property owner. | ✅ Yes. | Filed with Magistrate Summons; appeal allowed within 10 days. |
💡 Practice Tips for Civil Filings
- 📬 Serve properly. Use the sheriff’s office for initial service to avoid challenges. Certified mail works, but only if signed and returned.
- 📅 Mind the deadlines. Defendants have 30 days to answer after service; motions for summary judgment require 10 days’ notice before hearing.
- 📂 Know your venue. District Court handles smaller civil matters (under $25,000); Superior Court handles larger or complex claims.
- 🧾 Track extensions carefully. Motions to enlarge time must be filed before your response deadline passes.
- ⚖️ Discovery compliance. In complex civil cases, follow Rule 26(f) early disclosures — missing deadlines can bar evidence later.
Understanding these key AOC forms can make a major difference in navigating North Carolina’s civil court system. From summons to dismissal, every document matters. For tailored legal assistance in civil cases — whether you’re filing, defending, or seeking enforcement — Adkins Law, PLLC is here to help.
🕊️ 🕊️ Estates & Probate – Top 10 North Carolina AOC Forms
When a loved one passes away, the probate process can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, North Carolina’s Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) provides standardized forms that make estate administration more accessible. Whether you’re probating a will, applying to serve as executor, or settling a small estate, these forms ensure the process is handled correctly under state law.
Below are the 10 most common AOC forms used in estates and probate, explained in plain language so you can understand what each one does and when it’s required.
📋 Top 10 AOC Estates & Probate Forms in North Carolina
| 🔢 Rank / Form No. | 📄 Form Name | ⚙️ Primary Use | 👤 Who Files | 💵 Filing Fee? | 🗒️ Notes (Bond / Notice Requirements) |
|---|
| 1️⃣ AOC-E-201 | Application for Probate and for Letters | Requests the court to recognize and record a decedent’s will and issue appropriate letters. | Executor / Personal Representative | ✅ Yes (filing fee) | Must include original will and death certificate. No bond if will waives it. |
| 2️⃣ AOC-E-403 | Letters Testamentary | Officially appoints the executor named in a valid will. | Clerk of Superior Court (issued to executor) | ❌ No (included in estate filing) | Grants legal authority to manage and distribute estate assets. |
| 3️⃣ AOC-E-404 | Letters of Administration (Intestate) | Appoints an administrator when the decedent died without a will. | Heir or next of kin | ✅ Yes | Bond typically required unless waived by all heirs or estate qualifies as small. |
| 4️⃣ AOC-E-203 | Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property (Small Estate) | Allows heirs to collect and transfer assets without full probate. | Surviving spouse or heir | ✅ Yes (nominal) | Estate assets ≤ $20 k ($30 k if spouse is sole heir). |
| 5️⃣ AOC-E-307 | Notice to Creditors | Alerts potential creditors to file claims within 90 days. | Executor or administrator | ✅ Yes (publication cost) | Publish once per week for 4 weeks; file proof of publication. |
| 6️⃣ AOC-E-505 | Inventory | Lists all assets, property, and debts of the estate. | Executor or administrator | ❌ No | Due within 3 months of qualification; must be sworn and notarized. |
| 7️⃣ AOC-E-506 | Annual Account | Reports income, disbursements, and asset changes each year. | Executor or administrator | ❌ No | Must be filed annually until estate is closed; include receipts and verifications. |
| 8️⃣ AOC-E-507 | Final Account | Closes the estate by showing all receipts and distributions. | Executor or administrator | ✅ Yes (nominal closing fee) | Filed after all debts and distributions are complete; must be verified and approved by the clerk. |
| 9️⃣ AOC-E-405 | Renunciation / Declination of Right to Qualify | Used when a named executor or heir declines to serve as administrator. | Executor or next of kin | ❌ No | Allows another representative to qualify; must be notarized. |
| 🔟 AOC-E-100 / E-101 | Year’s Allowance (Spouse / Child) | Provides surviving spouse or minor children with statutory allowance before creditors. | Spouse or guardian | ✅ Yes | Must be filed within one year of death; exempt from most creditor claims. |
💡 Practice Tips for Estate Administration
- 💰 When Bonds Are Required:
If a will does not waive bond — or there is no will — the clerk usually requires a bond equal to the estate’s value. Bonds can be waived if all heirs consent or if the estate qualifies as “small.” - 📅 Deadlines for Inventory & Accountings:
Executors must file an initial Inventory within 3 months of qualification. Annual Accountings are due every 12 months thereafter until the Final Account is approved. - ⚖️ Caveats (Will Contests):
Any interested party may file a “Caveat” (challenge to the will’s validity) within three years after probate. This suspends estate administration until the matter is resolved in Superior Court. - 🧾 Keep Meticulous Records:
The clerk’s office closely reviews every accounting. Keep receipts, bank statements, and invoices organized for easy verification.
Probate doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right forms and legal guidance, you can navigate the process efficiently and avoid common mistakes.
For help with estate filings, will contests, or small estate administration, Adkins Law, PLLC provides experienced and compassionate guidance throughout the Lake Norman region.
🔎 Quick Reference: Cross-Category North Carolina AOC Forms
Not every court form fits neatly into a single category. Many AOC forms are used across multiple areas of law — from family and civil cases to criminal and estate matters. Below is a short list of the most versatile and commonly used forms that appear again and again throughout North Carolina’s court system.
📜 1. Subpoena (Civil, Criminal, and General Variants)
Form Numbers:
- AOC-G-100 — Subpoena (General form used in all divisions)
- AOC-G-115 — Subpoena Duces Tecum (for production of records only)
- AOC-CV-504 — Civil Subpoena / Subpoena Duces Tecum
- AOC-CR-200 — Criminal Subpoena
Purpose:
Commands a witness to appear in court, a deposition, or hearing — or to produce documents, records, photos, or other evidence.
Who Uses It:
Attorneys, self-represented litigants, clerks, or judges.
Key Notes:
- Must clearly state the date, time, and location of appearance.
- Must be personally served (by sheriff, deputy, or process server).
- Failure to comply can result in contempt of court.
- For records only, use a Subpoena Duces Tecum (records-production version).
- Governed by Rule 45, N.C. Rules of Civil Procedure (civil) and G.S. 15A-801 – 803 (criminal).
📨 2. Certificate of Service / Certificate of Mailing / Notice of Service
Form Numbers:
- AOC-CV-305 — Certificate of Service
- AOC-CV-306 — Certificate of Mailing to Opposing Party – Notice of Hearing or Motion
Purpose:
Proves that you properly delivered copies of pleadings, motions, or notices to every other party in the case.
Who Uses It:
All parties (including attorneys and pro se litigants) who file any document after the initial complaint or petition.
Key Notes:
- Must list names, mailing addresses, and method of service (mail, sheriff, hand-delivery, or e-service).
- Required for almost every filing; omissions can delay or void pleadings.
- Always keep the stamped certificate or proof of mailing for your records.
🤝 3. Mediation Orders & Referral Notices
Form Numbers:
- AOC-CV-803 — Order Referring Case to Arbitration or Mediation (General Civil)
- AOC-CV-804 — Designation of Mediator by Party Selection or by Court
- AOC-CV-805 — Report of Mediator (Civil Cases)
- AOC-CV-828 — Family Financial Mediation Order & Referral Notice
Purpose:
Directs parties to participate in court-ordered mediation, designates the mediator, and records the mediation outcome.
Who Uses It:
Judges, clerks, attorneys, and certified mediators during pre-trial case management.
Key Notes:
- Required in most custody, equitable-distribution, and civil cases before trial.
- Specifies deadlines, mediator name, and reporting requirements.
- Non-attendance without good cause can result in sanctions or dismissal.
- Adkins Law attorneys are certified mediators and assist clients through the entire mediation process.
🗣️ 4. Interpreter Requests & ADA Accommodations
Form Numbers:
- AOC-G-115 — Request for Court Interpreter
- AOC-G-120 — Request for ADA Accommodation (Access to Courts)
Purpose:
Ensures equal access to the courts for individuals with limited English proficiency, hearing or visual impairments, or physical disabilities.
Who Uses It:
Any party, witness, juror, attorney, or spectator needing communication or accessibility assistance.
Key Notes:
- Should be filed as early as possible — ideally when a case is first scheduled.
- The court provides interpreters and ADA services at no charge.
- Common requests include sign-language interpreters, wheelchair access, and assistive listening devices.
- Confidential medical or linguistic information is protected under the ADA.
🧭 Why These Forms Matter
These “cross-category” AOC forms are the unsung heroes of the court system. They keep proceedings fair, efficient, and accessible — ensuring that everyone involved receives notice, is properly heard, and has equal access to justice. Whether you’re managing a civil hearing, criminal motion, or family law matter, these forms often bridge the gap between filing and courtroom success.
For help preparing or filing AOC forms — from subpoenas to mediation orders — Adkins Law, PLLC provides experienced, local guidance across all major areas of law.
🧭 Filing & Service Checklist
Before you submit any paperwork to the Clerk of Court, take a moment to double-check the essentials. Many filings get delayed — or even rejected — over small technical mistakes that can easily be avoided. This quick checklist covers what every filer should confirm before walking up to the counter or uploading documents online.
📍 1. Confirm Venue and Jurisdiction
Make sure you’re filing in the correct county and court division (District vs. Superior).
- Venue determines where your case belongs — usually where the incident occurred or where the defendant resides.
- Jurisdiction determines which court can hear your case — for example, District Court handles most family, misdemeanor, and small civil matters, while Superior Court handles felonies and higher-value claims.
Filing in the wrong county or division can delay your case and force a costly refiling.
🗂️ 2. Complete All Required Cover Sheets
Every new civil or family case must include a Civil Action Cover Sheet (AOC-CV-750) or its equivalent.
- Check that each section is filled out correctly — type of case, issue code, and all parties listed.
- Attach additional pages if you have multiple plaintiffs or defendants.
- Failure to include the cover sheet can cause the clerk to reject or hold your filing.
If you’re unsure which form to use, most clerk’s offices have sample packets or online form libraries.
💵 3. Verify Fees, Indigency Status, and Service Method
- Filing Fees: Confirm with the Clerk of Superior Court for your county. Common examples: divorce ($225+), small claims ($96), estate opening ($120+).
- Indigency Waivers: If you cannot afford court costs, you may request to proceed in forma pauperis using AOC-G-106 (Petition to Sue/Appeal as an Indigent).
- Service Method: Choose the correct way to notify the opposing party:
- 👮♂️ Sheriff service — reliable for new cases; requires an additional fee.
- ✉️ Certified mail — acceptable if signed return receipt is filed.
- 🖊️ Acceptance of service — possible if the opposing party agrees in writing.
Always attach the Certificate of Service for any filing beyond the initial complaint.
💻 4. Prepare Proposed Orders in Both Word and PDF Formats
Many judges prefer that proposed orders be submitted in editable Word format, allowing them to make minor revisions before signing. Always also include a PDF version for the record.
- Label your files clearly (e.g., Proposed Order – Custody Modification – Smith v. Smith).
- Attach your proposed order to the related motion or bring a hard copy to the hearing.
- Double-check that all party names and case numbers are identical across every document.
✅ Final Pro Tip
Before leaving the clerk’s counter, review your receipt and file-stamped copies to ensure every document is accounted for. Missing even a single form or service notice can delay hearings or affect your legal rights.
⚖️ How Adkins Law Can Help
At Adkins Law, PLLC, we understand that navigating North Carolina’s court system — and its dozens of AOC forms — can be stressful and confusing. Our firm helps clients in Huntersville and across the Lake Norman area with every step of the legal process, from completing the right forms to representing you in hearings, mediation, and trial.
Whether you’re filing for divorce or custody, defending a criminal charge, handling a civil dispute, or managing a probate estate, our attorneys provide clear guidance, personal attention, and local insight you can trust.
We don’t just know the law — we know Huntersville, Cornelius, Davidson, Mooresville, and the surrounding communities. With years of courtroom experience and a practical approach to problem-solving, we make sure your case is handled efficiently, correctly, and with care.
📍 Adkins Law, PLLC – 9620 Sherrill Estates Road, Huntersville, NC 28078
📞 Call or text today to schedule a consultation with experienced attorneys serving Huntersville, Lake Norman, and the greater Charlotte area.
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