Bill > H770

This bill establishes a new procedure for handling complex family financial cases in North Carolina by creating a specialized process with dedicated hearing officers. Specifically, the bill defines a "complex family financial case" as certain types of family law claims involving intricate financial issues, such as equitable distribution, alimony, child support, and property valuation. The Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court will appoint three hearing officers, one of whom will serve as the chief hearing officer, who must be licensed attorneys with substantial experience in family law. These hearing officers will have the authority to conduct hearings, take testimony, evaluate evidence, and issue orders with the same legal weight as district court judges. The bill outlines specific qualifications for hearing officers, including extensive family law experience and continuing legal education requirements. Parties can request their case be designated as a complex family financial case by filing a Notice of Designation, which will be reviewed by the chief hearing officer based on factors like business valuation, property classification, retirement benefits, tax issues, and total case complexity. Most hearings will be recorded, with motion hearings typically held virtually and final disposition hearings held in person. The bill also requires annual reporting on the program's implementation and performance, and establishes a new filing fee structure for these specialized cases. The new procedure will become effective July 1, 2025, with the first cases being eligible for designation on January 1, 2026.

Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H770