An essential function for the Judicial Branch is the ability to connect to the public via telephone. In most offices statewide, dialing the area code plus the number, known as 10-digit dialing, is already an FCC requirement. In certain counties across the state, the ability remains for county residents to make a local call by dialing the number only, without the area code. Over time, FCC regulations will require 10-digit dialing for all local calls.

With recent changes to North Carolina judicial telephone services, all calls to judicial offices and court staff will need to be made using 10-digit dialing with the area code plus the number.