Governor Pat McCrory has proclaimed the 50th anniversary of North Carolina's unified court system and district courts. The proclamation follows Chief Justice Mark Martin's statewide announcement earlier this year that launched a statewide celebration of milestone anniversaries for the North Carolina Judicial Branch.

"These are important milestones for North Carolina. Our courts process nearly three million cases each year - cases that help keep our citizens safe, our economy vibrant, and our rights and liberties secure," said Chief Justice Martin. "I invite every North Carolinian to join in this celebration by learning more about North Carolina's Judicial Branch and the importance of our courts."

The establishment of district courts in 1966 replaced a patchwork system of local courts throughout the state with uniform jurisdiction. North Carolina currently has 270 district court judges across North Carolina's 100 counties who fulfill duties and responsibilities as set forth in the N.C. General Statutes, Chapter 7A.

The Celebrate N.C. Courts initiative commemorates the milestone anniversaries of the courts between 2016 and 2019

• 2016 - Unified court system (50th), N.C. Administrative Office of the Courts (50th), District Court (50th)
• 2017 - Court of Appeals (50th), Superior Court (240th)
• 2019 - Supreme Court (200th)

During this time of celebration, events will occur across the state bringing together court officials, local leaders and citizens to commemorate the history of our court system. Community events will educate North Carolinians and encourage them to join in thinking strategically about the future of our courts and the pursuit of justice.

More Information
Celebrate.NCcourts.org - Learn about court history, events, news, resources and more.