David S. Cayer

North Carolina law permits judicial officials to conduct proceedings by audio and video transmission, subject to statutory safeguards and case-specific limits.

Judicial officials may conduct proceedings of all types using an audio and video transmission in which the parties, the presiding official, and any other participants can see and hear each other.

For North Carolina civil jury proceedings, remote witness testimony requires a record finding of good cause.

In a civil proceeding involving a jury, the court may allow a witness to testify by audio and video transmission only upon finding in the record that good cause exists.

North Carolina audio/video proceedings must use videoconferencing applications approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts.

All proceedings under this section shall be conducted using videoconferencing applications approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts.

North Carolina Judicial Branch guidance distinguishes official court reporters, digital recording technicians, and later transcription of official recordings.

A digital recording technician attends the court proceeding as well and is trained to use special recording equipment and technology to make a recording along with detailed notes of the proceeding.

North Carolina states that not all court proceedings are recorded and identifies when audio recordings may be requested from the clerk.

If the clerk or digital recording technician made an audio recording of the proceeding, you may request a copy of the audio recording from the clerk's office in the county where the case is filed.