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Durham County · 16th Judicial District

District Court

Most cases that affect ordinary life are heard here: misdemeanors, traffic, small claims on appeal, custody, child support, domestic violence protective orders, and evictions on appeal from the magistrate.

Superior Court guide for Durham County →
Where
Durham County Courthouse
510 S. Dillard Street, Durham
Sessions begin
Criminal 9:00 · Civil 9:00 · Arrive 30 minutes early
Security
Screening at every entrance. No knives, no aerosols. Phones allowed, silenced.
Accessibility
Step-free entry. Interpreters and assistive listening on request.
court data reviewed 2028-02-18 · source: NC Administrative Office of the Courts · report a change

The day itself

  1. Screening and finding the courtroom

    The calendar for the day is posted on screens in the lobby and outside each courtroom. Find your name, note the room number.

  2. Calendar call

    Every name on the session is read aloud at the start. Answer when yours is called, even though your case will not be heard yet.

  3. Waiting

    Cases are called in an order set by the court, not by arrival. Plan for the whole morning. Bring something to read.

  4. Your case is called

    Walk to the front and stand at the table. Address the judge as "Your Honor". Speak only when asked a question.

  5. Before you leave

    Collect any paperwork from the clerk and confirm your next date in writing before you leave the building.

What this court hears

Misdemeanor criminal
Custody and child support
Traffic and motor vehicle
Chapter 50B protective orders
Civil claims to $25,000
Appeals from the magistrate
Before you go
  • The paperwork you were given
  • Photo ID, if you have one
  • Proof of income, if asking for a lawyer
  • Any documents named in your notice
  • A plan for childcare and parking
Ask the court for

An interpreter, an assistive listening device, or a continuance — all are requested through the Clerk of Superior Court, in advance where possible.

clerk of superior court
durham county · civil & criminal divisions
legal aid: Legal Aid of North Carolina — Durham office

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