Magistrates are often referred to as the “first face” of the judicial system for most citizens. They serve the public with professionalism, all while keeping abreast of the rapidly changing civil and criminal laws. In 2021, their training requirements were increased by the legislature from 12 hours every two years to 12 hours every year. As part of those 12 hours of training, magistrates are required to receive annual training on seven required subjects: (1) setting conditions of pretrial release, (2) impaired driving laws, (3) issuing criminal processes, (4) issuing search warrants, (5) technology, (6) orders of protection, and (7) summary ejectment laws. GS 7A-177. One of the best things about my job working with magistrates is that they are always excited about training and participate enthusiastically in courses and conferences. In 2020 the North Carolina Judicial College launched the Magistrate Certification Program to recognize magistrates who complete advanced training in the areas of civil and criminal law. These magistrates not only satisfy their minimum annual requirements, but they go above and beyond by attending advanced training to satisfy the five required components of Civil and/or Criminal Law Certification. Applications for certification were received from November 1 through December 31, 2023. The next application period will be November 1 through December 31, 2024. Civil Law Christopher Bazzle, Mecklenburg County Heather Callejas, Iredell County Leonard Custis, Pasquotank County Samuel “Chris” Hardison, Martin County Ashlyn Harris, Cleveland County Patricia Higgs, Mecklenburg County Laura Holden, Swain County Jeff Hollan, Alamance County Tami Johnson, Johnston [...]
Faculty Coordinators
