Bladen County
Bladen County is situated in the southeastern part of North Carolina in an area known as the coastal plains. It was founded in 1734 from New Hanover Precinct and now contains 879 square miles, making it the fourth largest county in North Carolina. More than 29,000 people live in Bladen County.
The court structure in Bladen County is made up of the district court and the superior court. The district court handles certain kinds of civil and criminal cases. The types of civil cases heard by district courts include matters of civil claims for up to $25,0000, exclusive of interests and costs. They can also hear cases relating to domestic violence protection cases and involuntary mental health commitments. Bladen County has a small claims court handline general civil claims for $10,000 or less, exclusive of costs and interests. The small claims court in the district court can also handle claims for the recovery of personal property, recovery of money, and eviction.
Domestic relation and juvenile matters are also heard by the district court. Such cases include divorce, child support, child custody, annulment, and equitable distribution of property.
The superior court in Bladen County has general jurisdiction over all criminal and civil cases, and especially handles cases beyond the jurisdiction of the Bladen County district court. Some of the criminal cases heard in the Bladen County superior courts include all felonies, some infractions and misdemeanors. Civil cases heard in this court include general civil claims of more than $25,000 in dispute. Bladen County superior courts have exclusive jurisdiction over probate matters and the administration of estates for decedents. Additionally, they have original jurisdiction over most guardianship cases.
Information and the documentation of the proceedings originating from the district and superior court cases make up court documents in Bladen County. These documents are maintained by the Clerk of the Superior Court. To obtain court records, visit the courthouses in person to use a public computer located in the court's office or search online via the North Carolina eCourts Portal.
