Court of Appeals Slip Opinions

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Filed: 18 March 2026
Mandate: 7 April 2026
Zip File of Published Opinions

Case Title / Description
Bailey v. Bailey  (25-483 - Published)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
equitable distribution; classification; valuation; equity; real property; business; stipulation.
Barefoot v. Durham Cnty.  (23-1083 - Published)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
summary judgment, conservation subdivisions, ordonance
Barr v. Holton Constr. Concepts, LLC  (25-751 - Published)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
general contractor licensing; Chapter 87; license limitation; unenforceable contract; summary judgment.
Figueroa v. Monsivais  (25-593 - Published)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
real property, breach of contracts, unrecorded contracts to convey, recording statute, N.C.G.S. § 47-18, purchaser for value, fair consideration, genuine issues of material fact, summary judgment.
In re: L.D.W.  (25-327 - Published)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
N.C.G.S. § 7B-1111(a)(7); exclusion of evidence during the adjudicatory phase.
In re: P.G., O.G., H.G.  (25-677 - Published)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
Adjudication; juvenile; neglect; post-petition evidence; statements from mistrial; adjudication order
In re: S.H., S.H., T.H.  (25-343 - Published)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
custody order; permanency planning order; visitation; abuse of discretion; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7B-911; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50-13.2(a)
Phillips v. N.C. Dep't of Com., Div. of Emp't Sec.  (25-440 - Published)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
unemployment benefits; discharge; voluntary departure; misconduct; benefit eligibility.
Riddick v. Gates Cnty.  (25-647 - Published)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
Rule 12(b)(6); tortious interference with contract; N.C.G.S. 163-35(c); N.C.G.S. 15A-296; N.C.G.S. 99D-1.
State v. Butler  (25-9 - Published)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Serious bodily injury; surveillance video authentication; flight
State v. Ferguson  (25-447 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
probation violation, possession of methamphetamine, larceny of ungathered crops, sufficient notice, no abuse of discretion, probation revocation, activated sentence, consecutive sentence
State v. Ingram  (25-83 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Statutory Sex Offense by an Adult with a Minor; Indecent Liberties with a Minor; Waiver of Right to Counsel; Proceed Pro Se; Waiver of Jury Trial; Later Indicted Charges; Failure to Advise;
State v. Sloan  (25-128 - Published)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
N.C.R. Evid. 401; N.C.R. Evid. 403; N.C.R. Evid. 404(b); N.C.G.S. § 15A-926(a) joinder of separate offenses; clerical error on Judgment and Commitment worksheet.
State v. Smathers  (25-357 - Published)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
N.C.G.S. 14-208; online identifier; First Amendment; facial constitutional challenge.
Yurk v. Terra Ctr., LLC  (25-439 - Published)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
conversion; trespass to chattels; unfair and deceptive trade practices (UDTPA); punitive damages; treble damages; attorney's fees; veil piercing; Self-Storage Facility Act; mootness; bench trial.
Unpublished Opinions
18 March 2026  - Rule 30e - Zip File of Unpublished Opinions
Mandate: 7 April 2026 

Bullock v. Holmes (25-548 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
medical malpractice action; N.C.G.S. § 90-21.12; N.C.R. Civ. P. 9(j); summary judgment.
Forest Ridge Townhomes Corp. of Greensboro v. Heag Pain Mgmt. Ctr. P.A. (25-600 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Surplus-funds disbursement; lienholder priority; Rule 52; Rule 59; Rule 60; Sanctions; AI.
In re: H.A.M. (25-538 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
termination of parental rights; inaccurate transcript; adequate record.
In re: H.B.D., R.E.D. (25-539 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Termination of parental rights; willful abandonment; incarceration; standard of proof
In re: J.A.T.M. (25-808 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Delinquent juvenile; motion to dismiss; insufficiency of evidence; ineffective assistance of counsel; N.C.G.S. 7B-2501(c); false report of mass violence
In re: J.B., IV & I.B.-B. (25-667 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
abuse; neglect; parental drug use; positive drug screens; consent to medical testing; clear and convincing evidence.
In re: M.C.B. (25-34 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
termination of parental rights; willful abandonment; incarcerated parent; clear, cogent, and convincing evidence; best interests of the child.
In re: R.C. (25-591 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
termination of parental rights; TPR; personal knowledge; hearsay; business records exception to hearsay
In re: Z.G. (25-476 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Ttermination of parental rights; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7B-1111(a)(1); current neglect; future neglect.
Kirk v. N.C. Dep't of Adult Corr. (25-62 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
N.C. Industrial Commission; Claims for Damages Under Tort Claims Act; actionable negligence.
Matulionis v. Loidl (25-426 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Intrustion upon seclusion; intentional infliction of emotional distress; negligent infliction of emotional distress; civil conspiracy; Rule 11 sanctions.
Newell v. Newell (25-614 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
alimony payments and arrearages; N.C.G.S. § 50-16.7(j); abuse of discretion.
Patterson v. S&S Prop. Restoration, LLC (25-446 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
interlocutory, substantial right, mistril
Sheena v. Sheena (25-403 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
interlocutory appeal; date of separation; jurisdiction
State v. Blanding (25-584 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
first-degree murder; plain error; jury instructions; Rule 403; Rule 404(b); felony murder.
State v. Bortz (25-75 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
probation revocation; jurisdiction; notice of appeal; N.C.R. App. P. 4; certiorari petition.
State v. Brawley (25-723 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Anders brief, trafficking by possession of fentanyl.
State v. Corral (25-298 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
first-degree murder; jury instructions on self-defense; jury instructions on voluntary manslaughter based on a theory of imperfect self-defense
State v. Cruz (24-987 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
second-degree rape; sufficiency of the evidence; consent; mistaken belief in consent; Rule 412.
State v. Gault (24-561 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Special probation; special condition of probation; First Amendment; freedom of speech and press; no internet access
State v. Greene (25-506 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
remote testimony, into property, contemporaneous communication
State v. Hairston (24-1072 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
closing argument; ex mero motu; prosecutor statement; grossly improper; gross impropriety
State v. Jihad (25-220 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
Motion to Suppress; reasonable suspicion; N.C.G.S. § 20-63(g); traffic violation to justify traffic stop.
State v. Johnson (25-300 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Petition for Writ of Certiorari; Satellite-Based Monitoring; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-208.40A
State v. Mangar (25-508 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
double jeopardy; hit-and-run; plain error; deadly weapon; resentencing.
State v. Maynor (25-643 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Possession of a firearm by a felon; plain error; self-defense; jury instructions; disqualifications under N.C.G.S. § 14-51.4; disqualifying conduct; immediate causal nexus
State v. McDuffie (25-233 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
trafficking in heroin; constructive possession; acting in concert; sufficiency of the evidence; inconsistent verdicts.
State v. McFarland (24-706 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
PWC, guilty plea
State v. McGraw (25-666 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
plain error review; writ of certiorari; N.C.G.S. § 14-27.2(a)(1); N.C.G.S. § 14-27.4(a)(1), fatal variance.
State v. Mitchell (25-386 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
inclusion of aggressor doctrine jury instruction; motion for mistrial; use of evidence during closing argument.
State v. Patterson (25-281 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
sufficiency of evidence; possession of firearm by felon; motion to dismiss; circumstantial evidence; robbery with a dangerous weapon.
State v. Reece (25-569 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
N.C.G.S. § 15-11.1(a); abuse of discretion; findings of fact and conclusions of law.
State v. Sosa-Valdez (25-464 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
material conflict, marijuana odor, motion to suppress
State v. Stanford (25-700 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
sentencing; prior record level; habitual felon
State v. Vandergrift (25-514 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Motion to suppress, probable cause, search warrant
State v. Waters (25-517 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge April Wood
Insufficient evidence; Habitual felon; Controlled substance on the premises of a penal institute.
State v. Watson (25-694 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Multiple First-degree murders; Minor sentenced to life w/o possibility of parole; Miller v. Alabama; N.C. Gen. Stat. 15A-1340.19A; N.C. Gen. Stat. 15A-1340.19C; Conceded Error;
Thompson v. Union Cnty. (25-204 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
zoning enforcement; side street setback; board of adjustment; law of the case; permit presumption.
Valenzuela v. Delhaize Am., LLC (25-537 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
second opinion evaluation, temporary partial disability, wage records
William Fulp Wrecker Serv., Inc. v. Finishline Trucking, L.L.C. (24-753 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
unjust enrichment; hazardous material spill; environmental remediation; statutory preemption; summary judgment.
IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE LISTED PUBLISHED AND UNPUBLISHED OPINIONS, THE COURT ALSO CONSIDERED 41 PETITIONS AND 294 MOTIONS.


Filed: 4 March 2026
Mandate: 24 March 2026
Zip File of Published Opinions

Case Title / Description
Dales v. Gardner-Webb Univ.  (25-699 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Summary Judgment for Defendant; Duty of care to student; Code of Conduct; Lack of School activity; Agency Principal Relationship; Lack of Ratification;
Gray Media Grp., Inc. v. Town of Matthews  (25-332 - Published)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Public Records Act; Public Records Request; In Camera Inspection; Summary Judgment; City Employee Personnel Records; Confidential; N.C.G.S. 160A-168(c)(4); Independent Determination that the Interests of Justice Require; N.C.G.S. 160A-168(c1)(2)
In re: J.R.D.L.G. & S.L.K.D.L.G.  (25-565 - Published)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
abused and neglected, unchallenged findings of fact, adjudication
In re: L.B.  (25-664 - Published)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Termination of Parental Rights; alternative child care arrangement
In re: Q.J.P., M.P., K.L.  (25-634 - Published)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
N.C. Gen. Stat. 7B-1001(a)(5), conditional PWC
In re: T.M.  (25-534 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
termination of parental rights, misapprehension of law, best interest determination, neglect, dependency, findings of fact, adoption, guardianship, permanent plan, second-degree murder
McDonald v. City of Winston-Salem  (25-582 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
Industrial Commission; motions to compel; injury by accident; occupational disease; evidentiary issues; Form 44 Application for Review; failure to address issues raised on appeal to Full Commission
McGehee v. Farber  (25-589 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
Patient Safety Act, patient safety work product, SAFE report, risk management, medical review committee, affidavit, physician-patient privilege, patient complaints, medical malpractice
NAACP v. Gaston Cnty.  (24-818 - Published)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
Summary judgment, N.C. Const. art. I, Section 19, disparate impact, N.C. Const. art. I, Section 18
Paez v. Pettis  (25-168 - Published)   Author: Judge April Wood
Specific performance; Necessary parties; Beneficial economic interest.
State v. Banks  (25-432 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
ultimate user exemption; trafficking by possession; lawful possession; N.C. Gen. Stat. Section 90-101(c)(3); N.C. Gen. Stat. Section 90-87(27); sua sponte jury instruction; substantial evidence.
State v. Barbour  (24-664 - Published)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
motion to dismiss; N.C.G.S. § 14-51.2; castle doctrine defense; jury instructions; plain error review; closing argument ex mero motu review.
State v. Hollis  (25-239 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
N.C. Gen. Stat. ? 90-108(a)(7); Keep a dwelling for controlled substance; Motion to Dismiss; Sufficiency of the evidence; Drugs found in hotel room; Defendant’s possession of the hotel room;
State v. Hunt  (23-890-2 - Published)   Author: Judge Tom Murry (View Supreme Court Opinion)
Lay-witness testimony; ineffective assistance of counsel; closing arguments; jury instructions; sentencing; restitution award.
State v. Mercer  (25-646 - Published)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Ineffective assistance of counsel; closing arguments.
Vastola v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Lodge 9 of the Fraternal Ord. of Police, Inc.  (25-761 - Published)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Motion to dismiss, defamation, factual content, subjective opinion.
Wheeler v. Wheeler  (25-376 - Published)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Equitable distribution; statutory factors; separation agreement
Unpublished Opinions
4 March 2026  - Rule 30e - Zip File of Unpublished Opinions
Mandate: 24 March 2026 

Cook v. Montgomery (25-484 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
DVPO, sufficient findings, Rule 52(a)
Cummings v. N.C. State Bd. of Elections (25-833 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Election protest, North Carolina Board of Elections, whole record test, administrative agency, additional evidence, N.C.G.S. § 163?182.11(b)(3), N.C.G.S. § 150B-49.
Fletcher Hosp., Inc. v. N.C. Dep't of Health & Hum. Servs. (25-658 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
certificate of need; contested case hearing; substantial prejudice; normal competition; summary judgment; N.C.G.S. § 150B-51.
In re: A.C-M.J. (25-641 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge April Wood
Termination of parental rights; Failure to correct the conditions which led to removal; Hearsay; Admissions of party-opponent; Domestic violence.
In re: A.H. (25-471 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
termination of parental rights, no merit, appellate rule 3.1(e)
In re: B.E. (25-103 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
termination of parental rights; neglect; best interest of child.
In re: C.C. (25-526 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
3.1; termination of parental rights; amended petition; subject matter jurisdiction; visitation; abuse of discretion.
In re: D.J. (24-680 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
juvenile delinquency; automatic transfer; interlocutory order; writ of certiorari.
In re: E.J.S. & S.C.H.S. (25-529 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
termination of parental rights, competent evidence, dispositional factors
In re: I.C.P., P.L.P., J.C.B.P. (25-443 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Termination of Parental Rights; no-merit brief
In re: K.C.G. (25-942 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
juvenile delinquency, disposition order, statutory mandate, Section 7B-2501(c), vacated and remanded.
In re: K.S. (25-400 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Termination of parental rights; Neglect; Alternative childcare provider; Parent's failure to consistently visit; Failure to provide safe home;
In re: L.M.C. (25-692 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
NCGS § 7B-505.1; authorization; medication; prescription; agency; director; social worker
Israel v. Zachary (25-493 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-25.9; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-36.2; N.C. R. App. P. 9(b)(5); N.C. R. App. P. 10(a);  Unjust Enrichment; Conversion; Depreciation
Martinez-Martinez v. Lopez (24-843 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
interlocutory appeal; substantial right; compulsory counterclaim; statute of limitations; waiver
State v. Allman (25-118 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
probation revocation, expiration of probation, good cause
State v. Curiel-Perez (25-328 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
scintilla of evidence, sufficiency of the evidence, Rule 28(b)(6)
State v. Greene (25-351 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Plain error; second degree murder; depraved-heart theory of malice; concealment of the death of a person who did not die of natural causes; aggravating factor; N.C.G.S. § 15A-1340.16(d)(5)
State v. Hinton (25-401 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Lesser-included offense, submission to jury
State v. Newmones (24-966 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
cumulative error, unanimous verdict, impeachment of verdict
State v. Shuping (25-450 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Motion to dismiss, solicitation of a child by computer, sufficiency of the evidence, undercover detective, light most favorable to the State.
State v. Stephens (25-685 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
Discharging Weapon; Motion to Dismiss; Judicial Opinion; Occupied Vehicle; Plain Error; Jury Instruction
IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE LISTED PUBLISHED AND UNPUBLISHED OPINIONS, THE COURT ALSO CONSIDERED 41 PETITIONS AND 294 MOTIONS.


Filed: 18 February 2026
Mandate: 10 March 2026
Zip File of Published Opinions

Case Title / Description
Bryant v. N.C. Dep't of Health & Hum. Servs.  (25-377 - Published)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Summary Judgment; Sovereign Immunity; State Tort Claims Act; Negligence; Agent of the State; Nondelegable Duty
In re: M.B.  (25-290 - Published)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
no contact, gag order, no abuse of discretion
Roesel v. Roesel  (25-612 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Entity intervenor in equitable distribution action; Rule 24; Direct and Immediate Interest in the pending action; Adequate Representation by an existing party; Interlocutory Appeal;
Sloan-Oudeh v. State Farm Fire & Cas. Co.  (25-636 - Published)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Motion to disqualify; Interlocutory appeal; Substantial right; Rule 3.7 of the NC Rules of Professional Conduct
State v. Alston  (25-291 - Published)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
motion to suppress; motion in limine; appeal to superior court; criminal defendant's statutory right of appeal following a guilty plea
State v. Cooke  (25-527 - Published)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
competency; due process; capacity to proceed; criminal procedure; new trial.
State v. Crowder  (25-384 - Published)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Jury selection; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-1214(g); peremptory strike; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-1214(h); challenge for cause; voir dire; challenge after impanelment; ineffective assistance of counsel; IAC
State v. Davidson  (25-478 - Published)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Willfulness mens rea; voluntary-intoxication defense; jury instructions; prejudicial error.
State v. Locklear  (25-287 - Published)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Ineffective assistance of counsel; rule 2; second degree murder; recordation; closing arguments; defense counsel; request; prejudice; mandatory; permissive; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-1241
State v. Redfear  (25-368 - Published)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
motion to suppress; waiver of appellate review; Miranda; unpreserved constitutional argument; motion to dismiss
State v. Samson  (25-317 - Published)   Author: Judge April Wood
Competency; Capacity; Indigent defendant; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7A-450; Motion to compel discovery; Self-representation; pro se; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-1242; Range of permissible punishments.
State v. Sanchez  (24-644 - Published)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
Motion to dismiss, contributing to the abuse of a juvenile, failure to discharge duties of office
State v. Strickland  (25-523 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Attempted first degree murder; Jurisdiction of Trial Court; Rule 404(b); Ineffective Assistance of Counsel; Trial strategy; Consolidated Judgments; Aggravating Factors;
State v. Villarreal  (25-219 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
aggressor doctrine; N.C. Gen. Stat. section 14-51.2; N.C. Gen. Stat. section 14-51.3; N.C. Gen. Stat. section 14-51.4; defense of another.
State v. Webber  (25-613 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
Sixth Amendment right to counsel; no voluntary waiver of counsel; forfeiture of counsel.
Steele v. Kenna  (25-530 - Published)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
trust; testamentary exception; attorney-client privilege
The N.C. State Bar v. Key  (25-597 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
no abuse of discretion, attorney discipline, order of discipline, Disciplinary Hearing Commission, suspension
Weaver v. AMV Holdings, LLC  (25-268 - Published)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
Products Liability Act; sealed container defense
Unpublished Opinions
18 February 2026  - Rule 30e - Zip File of Unpublished Opinions
Mandate: 10 March 2026 

Gill v. Tip Towing Inc. (25-759 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
interlocutory, appellate jurisdiction, substantial right
In re: A.L. (25-650 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Termination of parental rights, willful abandonment, juvenile best interest; incarceration of parent; unchallenged findings of fact
In re: B.C., A.B.W. (25-474 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
N.C.G.S. § 7B-906.2; N.C.G.S. §7B-911; N.C.G.S. § 50-13.2; permanency planning hearing; child custody; transfer to civil proceedings.
In re: C.H.B. (25-444 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
termination of parental rights, willful abandonment, findings of fact
In re: D.S., K.R., J.R., S.R. (25-448 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Financial resources; verification; findings of fact; conclusions of law; statutory findings; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7B-906.1; N.C. Gen. Stat. 7B-912
In re: Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC (25-203 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
N.C.G.S. § 62-133.2(d); N.C. Utilities Commission; fuel charge adjustments; ratemaking; statutory interpretation; amendments.
In re: Duke Energy Progress, LLC (25-310 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
N.C.G.S. § 62-133.2(d); N.C. Utilities Commission; fuel charge adjustments; ratemaking; statutory interpretation; amendments.
In re: E.J.T. (25-541 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
termination of parental rights, no-merit brief, sufficient findings of fact
In re: F.T.S. (25-622 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
GAL appointment; TPR.
In re: J.F. (25-151 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Intervenors; clear and convincing evidence; ceasing reunification efforts; permanency planning order; parental acts inconsistent with constitutionally protected status; sufficiency of findings of fact; PWC.
In re: K.T.N., K.J.N., C.A.N. (25-644 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge April Wood
Termination of parental rights; Disposition; Best interest determination; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7B-1110.
In re: M.G.C. & L.S.C. (25-427 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
best interest of the child, cost of care, child support, sufficient findings
In re: S.J. (25-370 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Rules of Appellate Procedure; appellate brief; sanctions
McKee-Whipple v. Whipple (25-201 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
equitable distribution, in-kind distribution, unequal distribution, relief from judgment, stock valuation, rule 60(b), abuse of discretion
Middle Sound Lookout v. New Hanover Cnty. (25-503 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Interlocutory appeal, substantial right
State v. Allison (25-394 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
motion for appropriate relief; MAR; habitual felon; habitual larceny; prior record level calculation; evidentiary hearing
State v. Briddell (25-750 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Hearsay; Hearsay Exception; Rule of Evidence 803(4); Medical Diagnosis or Treatment Hearsay Exception
State v. Byrnside (25-585 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
PWC, attorney's fees, Friend violation
State v. Harris-Brooks (25-583 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
sentencing, prior record level, prejudicial error
State v. Harwell (25-348 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
acting in concert; sufficiency of evidence; jury instructions; lesser-included offense; second-degree murder
State v. Hodge (25-139 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
freedom of speech; sex offender registry
State v. James (24-888 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Mistrial; competency; evidence of probation status
State v. Jones (25-308 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
ineffective assistance of counsel; IAC; conflict of interest
State v. Khouri (25-553 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
substantial similarity of felony
State v. Klein (25-732 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Conditional discharge agreement; Failure to pay restitution; Remarks of counsel not evidence; Revocation of probation;
State v. Lassiter (25-675 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
clerical error, mitigating and aggravating factors, speaking the truth
State v. Martin (25-489 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
ineffective assistance of counsel; defense of necessity; assault with a deadly weapon on a government official; injury to personal property
State v. Massey (25-346 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
motion to dismiss, scintilla of evidence, felony murder
State v. McClean (25-445) - [Withdrawn by order of the Court]
State v. Metcalf (25-626 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
supervised probation, statutory interpretation, special probation
State v. Sinclair (25-502 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
sufficiency of evidence; motion to dismiss; larceny; fair market value; jury instructions.
State v. Williams (24-990 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
motion to suppress, probable cause, plain error
State v. Wilson (25-765 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Anders brief
Waters v. State of N.C. Jud'l Standards Comm'n (25-492 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
Tort Claims Act; Industrial Commission; motion to dismiss; lack of jurisdiction; failure to state a claim; negligence.
Wyer v. Alamance Reg'l Med. Ctr. (25-693 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
summary judgment; negligence; res ipsa loquitur; medical malpractice; standard of care; expert testimony; proximate cause.
IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE LISTED PUBLISHED AND UNPUBLISHED OPINIONS, THE COURT ALSO CONSIDERED 41 PETITIONS AND 294 MOTIONS.


Filed: 4 February 2026
Mandate: 24 February 2026
Zip File of Published Opinions

Case Title / Description
Advisor Law, LLC v. Holland  (24-1035 - Published)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
motion to compel arbitration, summary judgment, breach of contract, choice of law, forum selection clause, contract interpretation, de novo, affirmed.
Cohen v. Hefetz  (25-39 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Child custody; Adjudicate evidence; Required findings; Best interest of child; Parent relocating to foreign jurisdiction; Ramirez-Barker factors;
Cunningham v. Cunningham  (25-276 - Published)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
equitable distribution, divisible property, required findings
Flores v. Gutierrez  (25-457 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
child support order; "closed" docket entries; error in treating temporary child support order as a permanent child support order; deviation from presumptive start date of the child support obligation; deviation from Child Support Guidelines; no abuse of discretion by imputing business expenses based on most recent verified financial information.
Griffin v. Brown  (25-524 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Dental malpractice; Summary Judgment for Defendants; Rule 9(j) Expert Testimony; Prima Facia claims; Lack of Proximate Cause; Corporate Negligence; Respondent Superior; Negligent Supervision;
Roybal v. Raulli  (23-983 - Published)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, motion to continue, civil contempt, custody modification
State v. Gibbon  (25-415 - Published)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
distinguishing presentment and indictment, fatal variance, misdemeanor death by vehicle
State v. Julius  (25-277 - Published)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
automobile exception, warrantless search, good faith exception
State v. Pride  (25-367 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
motion to dismiss; possession of a firearm by a felon; State presented sufficient evidence to support each element of possession of a firearm by a felon; N.C. Gen. Stat. 14-415.1 is facially constitutional.
State v. Toomer  (24-1102 - Published)   Author: Judge Donna Stroud
North Carolina Rule of Evidence 609(b), Required Findings of Fact, N.C. Const. Art. I, Section 24
Valle Cay Prop. Owners Ass'n, Inc. v. Slocum Mountain Real Est., LLC  (25-532 - Published)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Rule 12(b)(6) motion to dismiss; Restrictive covenants; Vertical and Horizontal Privity; light most favorable to nonmoving party
Unpublished Opinions
4 February 2026  - Rule 30e - Zip File of Unpublished Opinions
Mandate: 24 February 2026 

Bettis v. Weiss (25-258 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
Summary Judgment; Rule 56; Easement by Plat; Prescriptive Easement
Harris v. McLeod (24-834 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Equitable mortgage; affidavit; summary judgment; N.C. Gen. Stat. §1A-1, Rule 56(c); N.C. Gen. Stat. §1A-1, Rule 56(e)
In re: A.G.S., C.L.S., Jr. & L.J.S. (25-115 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
North Carolina Rules of Appellate Procedure Rule 3.1(e) no-merit brief; termination of parental rights; N.C.G.S. 7B-1111(a); neglected and dependent.
Plyler v. Meade (25-441 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
medical malpractice claim; Rules 12(b)(2) & 12(b)(5); insufficient service of process; no service of actual summons and complaint; no personal jurisdiction.
Ray v. TitleMax of Va., Inc. (25-378 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge April Wood
Personal jurisdiction; Minimum contacts; Motion to dismiss; Purposeful availment
State v. Anderson (25-215 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Illegal Drugs; Probable Cause; Search Warrant; Staleness; Possession of a Firearm by a Felon; Unpreserved Arguments; Plain Error Review;
State v. Chandler (25-459 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
juror competency; impartiality; trial court inquiry; indecent liberties.
State v. Duncan (25-218 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge April Wood
Castle doctrine; Defense of habitation; Jury instructions; Plain error; Video evidence
State v. Hubbard (25-102 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge April Wood
Pro se defendant; Competency hearing; Waiver of counsel
State v. Jackson (25-67 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Petition for Certiorari; Motion to Dismiss; Motion to Withdraw; Alford plea; Sufficiency of Factual Basis; Handy factors; Voluntary Plea
State v. Johnson (24-831 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Motion for Appropriate Relief; Ineffective Assistance of Counsel; Felony Child Abuse
State v. Kniest (24-669 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Arrowood
right to counsel; request for continuance; absolute impasse.
State v. Reid (25-312 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Personal-opinion expression; prejudicial error.
State v. Rogers (25-337 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Jurisdiction; jurisdictional and non-jurisdictional deficiencies; indictments
State v. Swain (25-463 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Tyson
First Degree Murder; Closing Arguments; Improper Comment; Plain Error;
State v. Tran (24-775 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
petition for writ of certiorari; pwc; writ of cert; abuse of discretion; sentencing; substantial assistance; motion to continue; continuance; constitutional right; effective assistance of counsel
State v. Williams (25-568 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Post-Conviction DNA Testing; Anders brief; no materiality
Watts v. Watts (24-1090 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
judicial function in determining visitation, resolve material issues, competent evidence in custody cases
IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE LISTED PUBLISHED AND UNPUBLISHED OPINIONS, THE COURT ALSO CONSIDERED 41 PETITIONS AND 294 MOTIONS.


Filed: 21 January 2026
Mandate: 10 February 2026
Zip File of Published Opinions

Case Title / Description
Eagles v. Integon Indem. Corp.  (25-263 - Published)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
receivership; venue; standing
Firley v. Town of Marshall  (25-408 - Published)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Inverse condemnation; municipal control; competent evidence.
Lawrence v. Lawrence  (25-304 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
equitable distribution; marital property; expert credibility determination; company accounts; company valuation; property valuation.
LDI Shallotte 179 Holdings, LLC v. State of N.C. Dep't of Envtl. Quality  (24-443 - Published)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
temporary regulatory taking, inverse condemnation, stormwater permit, motion to dismiss, summary judgment, res judicata, issue preclusion, contested case hearing, declaratory judgment, due process violation.
State v. Braswell  (25-286 - Published)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
IMPEACHMENT, RULE 608(A), CHARACTER FOR TRUTHFULNESS, OPEN THE DOOR, REHABILITATIVE EVIDENCE, PREJUDICE, CREDIBILITY, ABUSE OF DISCRETION, NEW TRIAL
State v. Haizlip  (25-469 - Published)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Motion for appropriate relief, MAR, procedural bar, N.C.G.S. § 15A-1419, retroactive change in law, forfeiture of counsel, State v. Simpkins, 373 N.C. 530 (2020).
State v. Robinson  (25-199 - Published)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Prejudicial Error; Prejudice; Closing argument; Opening argument; Rule 10; Expert Testimony; Confrontation Clause; Double Jeopardy; Death by Distribution; Sale and/or Delivery of a Controlled Substance; Ineffective Assistance of Counsel
Unpublished Opinions
21 January 2026  - Rule 30e - Zip File of Unpublished Opinions
Mandate: 10 February 2026 

Ceasar v. Savyelyeva (25-170 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Child custody; attorney’s fees; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50-13.6; good faith; genuine dispute over the custody of a minor child
Clements v. ARC NCCHRNC001, LLC (25-488 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge April Wood
Interlocutory appeal; Substantial right; Inconsistent verdicts; Motion to dismiss.
In re: A.B.T. (25-100 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Juvenile adjudication; disorderly conduct, sufficiency of evidence
In re: D.B., J.M. (24-51 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
nonsecure custody, abuse, neglect, dependency, petition, subject-matter jurisdiction, permanency-planning order, reunification, motion for review, affirmed.
Integon Indem. Corp. v. Eagles (25-264 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
receivership; venue; standing; motion to dismiss
Long Props., LLC v. City of Trinity (25-278 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
interpretation of zoning regulations; standard of review
Meyer v. Gribben (25-88 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
child custody; sufficient findings
Ross v. N.C. Dep't of Adult Corr. (24-920 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
tort claims act; negligence; industrial commission; damages; competent evidence; expungement
State v. Bollinger (25-269 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Ineffective assistance of counsel.
State v. Britt (25-431 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Anders brief; PWC; motion to dismiss; simple assault.
State v. Cain (25-544 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon; Felony Murder; Jury Instructions; Motion to Dismiss; Duress
State v. Darden (24-568 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
Anders brief; motion to dismiss; jury instruction; lesser included offense; prior record level.
State v. Hernandez (25-468 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
Legal Nullities; Waiver of Counsel; Pro Se; Right to Effective Assistance of Counsel; Right to a Speedy Trial.
State v. Madsen (25-52 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
Present Recollection Refreshed; Past Recollection Recorded; Substantive Evidence; Corroborative Evidence; Improper Vouching; No Plain Error.
State v. Montague (25-224 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Probation revocation; good cause
State v. Roger-Stubbs (25-531 - Unpublished)   Author: Per Curiam
N.C.G.S. § 14-451.1, Rule 2, possession of a firearm by a felon. 
State v. Wall (25-200 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Lay-opinion tesimony; ineffective assistance of counsel.
State v. Wilson (21-34-2 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
Batson hearing, procedural requirements, prima facie case
Taylor v. Myers (25-169 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Child custody; Temporary–permanent orders; Intervenors.
IN ADDITION TO THE ABOVE LISTED PUBLISHED AND UNPUBLISHED OPINIONS, THE COURT ALSO CONSIDERED 41 PETITIONS AND 294 MOTIONS.


Filed: 7 January 2026
Mandate: 27 January 2026
Zip File of Published Opinions

Case Title / Description
Crumel v. Morton  (25-372 - Published)   Author: Judge Tobias Hampson
Voluntary Dismissal; Relief from Judgment; Motion to Enforce Settlement
Hays v. Lewis  (24-872 - Published)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
North Carolina Domestic Violence Act; N.C. Gen. Stat. Chapter 50B; Domestic Violence Protective Order; ex parte DVPO; DVPO entered after notice and opportunity to be heard; one-year DVPO; one-year time limitation; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50B-3; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50B-3(b); N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50B-2(c)(5); statutory construction; plain meaning; statutory construction in context; Rudder v. Rudder
In re: Russo  (25-321 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
A law firm, as a corporate entity, may not serve as trustee of a trust or executor of a will without being authorized under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 53-303(a).
Randolph Cnty. Bd. of Educ. v. Stein  (25-130 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
environmental enhancement grants program; declaratory judgment; motion to dismiss; civil penalties; Article IX, Section 7 of the North Carolina Constitution; Article V, Section 7 of the North Carolina Constitution; appropriations clause; gift clause; Article IX, Section 6 of the North Carolina Constitution.
State v. Hodges  (25-50 - Published)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
motion to dismiss; N.C.R. App. P. 10(a)(3); ineffective assistance of counsel; motion for appropriate relief; civil judgment for attorney's fees
State v. Leggett  (25-288 - Published)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Rule of Evidence 901; authentication of video; satellite-based monitoring; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-208.40A
State v. Oakes  (25-247 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
Ineffective assistance of counsel; Competency; Psychiatric report; Sua sponte competency hearing; North Carolina Rules of Evidence Rule 901. 
State v. Phillips  (25-275 - Published)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
felony stalking; sufficient indictment; State v. Singleton; assault with a firearm on a law enforcement officer; jury instruction; no affirmative defense presented at trial to support giving the requested jury instruction; no evidence presented at trial to support giving the requested jury instruction
State v. Simpson (24-1092) - [Withdrawn by order of the Court]
Statutory Interpretation; Lenity; Concealed Firearm Statute; Probationary Period; No Prejudicial Error
State v. White  (25-470 - Published)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Competent evidence; motion to suppress; police checkpoints; probable cause.
Stein v. Hall  (25-745 - Published)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Separation of Powers; Gubernatorial appointments; Building Code Council; Utilities Commission; Appellate Judicial Vacancies; Facial Constitutional Challenge; Summary Judgment; Three Judge Panel;
US Right to Know v. The Univ. of N.C. at Chapel Hill  (25-420 - Published)   Author: Judge Jefferson Griffin
Statutory interpretation; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 132-1; canon of last antecedent; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 116-43.17; plain meaning
Unpublished Opinions
7 January 2026  - Rule 30e - Zip File of Unpublished Opinions
Mandate: 27 January 2026 

Blaylock's Glen Homeowners Ass'n, Inc. v. Jones (25-691 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge John Tyson
Homeowners Association; Summary Judgment;
Brown v. Take 5 LLC (25-497 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
personal jurisdiction, Rule 12(b)(2), standard of review, abandoned argument. 
Butler v. Millennium Advisors, LLC (25-166 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
NCWHA, UDTP, severance payment, non-compete payment
In re: C.D.W. (24-1088 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
Custody; Termination of Parental Rights; Willful Abandonment; Credibility; Private TPR Petition; Contempt Motion; Chapter 7B; Chapter 50.
In re: M.B. (25-315 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Fred Gore
termination of parental rights; best interests of the child; abuse of discretion; N.C.G.S. § 7B-1110(a); permanency planning.
Levinsky v. Levinsky (25-245 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
separation agreements; evidence supports trial court's findings and conclusions that the agreements are binding and enforceable; child support payments; competent evidence supports the trial court's calculation of unpaid child support; statute of limitations.
Mar. Advisors, LLC v. HC Composites, LLC (25-40 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
limited liability company; LLC; corporation; motion to dismiss; motion to substitute; involuntary dissolution; ratification; contract; standing; subject matter jurisdiction; real party in interest
Moore v. Richmen Enters., LLC (24-509 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Michael Stading
Rule 59 motion for a new trial; Rule 50 motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict; Rule 42 motion to bifurcate; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1A-1, Rule 42, N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1A-1, Rule 50, N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1A-1, Rule 59; stream of commerce; negligence; product liability; implied warranty of merchantability; implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose; sealed-container defense; N.C. Gen. Stat. § 99B-2(a); directed verdict; JNOV
Peace v. Willis (25-361 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Option contracts.
Sanders P'ship, LLC v. City of Charlotte (24-604 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
Zoning Ordinance; Variance; Board of Adjustment; Standards of Review: Whole Record; De Novo; Arbitrary and Capricious.
Sargent v. N.C. Bd. of Nursing (25-356 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Allegra Collins
petition for judicial review; NC Board of Nursing; Final Decision and Non-Disciplinary Order; order remands case to the Board for further proceedings; interlocutory order
State v. Hayes (25-380 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
motion to dismiss; attempted first-degree murder; assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill; jury instructions; lesser-included offense
State v. Hoffman (25-313 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Julee Flood
Rule 104(b), Rule 404(b), Rule 403, witness testimony, prior bad acts, absence of mistake, improper vouching, plain error, ex mero motu, ineffective assistance of counsel, cumulative error, misdemeanor assault on a child under the age of twelve.
State v. Ingram (23-748-2 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Christopher Freeman
Article I, Section 24; verdict by jury of twelve; N.C.G.S. § 15A-1215; presumed to follow instructions
State v. Jenkins (25-131 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
Jury Instructions; Involuntary Manslaughter; Second-degree murder; Jury Request; Abuse of Discretion.
State v. Miller (25-95 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Chris Dillon
sufficiency of evidence, fatal variance, jury instruction, effective assistance of counsel
State v. Richards (24-1037 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
Indecent Liberties; Improper Vouching; No Plain Error; Mistrial; Sua Sponte
State v. Stockton (25-214 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Tom Murry
Motiomn to suppress; reasonable suspicion; PRL calculation.
State v. Williams (24-838 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Jeff Carpenter
Evidence; Witness Identification; Fifth Amendment; Jury Request; Authentication; Cumulative Error; Prejudicial Error; Ex Mero Motu; Closing Argument
Whitaker v. Hall (25-486 - Unpublished)   Author: Judge Valerie Zachary
civil contempt; purge condition