About Brunswick County

Brunswick County is located in the southeastern corner of North Carolina, nestled between the Cape Fear River to the east and the South Carolina border to the south. The county encompasses approximately 1,050 square miles of diverse landscape, ranging from the pristine barrier island beaches of the Atlantic coastline to vast stretches of longleaf pine forest and productive farmland in the interior. With a coastline that includes popular destinations such as Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, and Oak Island, Brunswick County is a place of remarkable natural beauty that draws visitors and new residents alike from across the country. With a population of approximately 136,693 residents, Brunswick County is one of the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina and consistently ranks among the fastest-growing counties in the entire United States. This rapid population growth has been driven largely by retirees and families relocating from northern states, attracted by the mild climate, coastal lifestyle, relatively affordable real estate, and proximity to the larger Wilmington metropolitan area. The county seat of Bolivia, a small and quiet town situated in the heart of the county, serves as the administrative center of local government, housing the courthouse and key county offices despite its modest size. The economy of Brunswick County is multifaceted, with tourism and real estate development serving as dominant economic drivers, particularly along the coastal strand. The construction industry has boomed alongside residential growth, and the service sector has expanded significantly to meet the demands of a growing population. Agriculture remains an important part of the county's identity and economy in its rural interior, with tobacco, soybeans, corn, and sweet potatoes among the key crops. The county also benefits from its proximity to Wilmington, which provides residents access to a broader range of employment opportunities in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and commerce, making Brunswick County an increasingly attractive place to live and work in the modern South.

Practice Areas in Brunswick County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in Brunswick County

Brunswick County is served by the North Carolina General Court of Justice, which operates at the Brunswick County Courthouse located at 310 Government Center Drive NE, Bolivia, NC 28422. The courthouse houses both the Brunswick County District Court and the Brunswick County Superior Court. The District Court handles a wide range of matters including misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic infractions and violations, small claims disputes up to $10,000, civil cases up to $25,000, juvenile matters, and family law cases such as child custody, child support, and domestic violence protective orders. The Superior Court handles more serious felony criminal cases, civil disputes involving amounts greater than $25,000, and appeals from the District Court. Brunswick County also has magistrates who handle initial criminal appearances, set bail, perform marriage ceremonies, and adjudicate small claims cases. The District Attorney's office for Prosecutorial District 13B prosecutes criminal cases in Brunswick County.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Brunswick County

In Brunswick County, the vast majority of legal matters — including traffic offenses, family law disputes, most criminal cases, landlord-tenant issues, and general civil litigation — are handled by the North Carolina state courts located in Bolivia. However, certain cases fall under federal jurisdiction and are heard in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, which covers Brunswick County; the nearest federal courthouse is located in Wilmington at 2 Princess Street. Federal court handles matters involving federal law, including cases related to federal crimes such as drug trafficking across state lines, immigration violations, bankruptcy proceedings, civil rights claims under federal statutes, and disputes between citizens of different states involving amounts over $75,000. Understanding whether your legal matter belongs in state or federal court is an important early step in any legal proceeding, and the distinction can significantly affect strategy, timelines, and available remedies.

Common Legal Situations in Brunswick County

Given Brunswick County's rapid growth, coastal character, and diverse population, residents frequently encounter a range of legal issues that reflect the unique demands of life in this dynamic community. Traffic and driving offenses are among the most common legal matters, including speeding on busy coastal highways such as US-17 and NC-211, driving while impaired, and license-related issues. The booming real estate market generates frequent legal questions around property transactions, boundary disputes, HOA conflicts, and contractor disputes related to new home construction. Family law matters — including divorce, child custody, child support, and domestic violence protective orders — are also prevalent given the large number of new residents and blended families relocating to the area. Criminal defense matters ranging from misdemeanor drug charges to more serious felonies are regularly handled in the local courts, as are employment disputes, particularly in the hospitality and service industries that dominate the coastal economy. Estate planning, wills, and probate matters are especially common given the significant retired population that calls Brunswick County home.

Why Go To Court for Brunswick County Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is an excellent choice for Brunswick County residents who need reliable, accessible legal representation in any area of law. The team offers a free 24/7 legal hotline, meaning that whether you have been arrested late on a Friday night or are facing an urgent family law matter over the weekend, you can reach a legal professional at any hour without delay. Go To Court is also working toward offering fixed-fee legal services, giving clients greater transparency and financial predictability when facing what can already be a stressful situation. With an experienced team of lawyers familiar with North Carolina law and local court procedures, Brunswick County residents can trust that their legal matters will be handled with professionalism and care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I get a speeding ticket on Highway 17 in Brunswick County?

A speeding ticket in Brunswick County will typically require you to either pay the fine or appear in District Court in Bolivia to contest it. Depending on the speed and your driving record, a conviction can add points to your license and cause your insurance premiums to rise significantly. An attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge such as improper equipment, which carries no license points.

How do I file for divorce in Brunswick County, North Carolina?

To file for an absolute divorce in Brunswick County, at least one spouse must have lived in North Carolina for at least six months, and the couple must have been separated and living apart for at least one year. You file your divorce complaint with the Brunswick County Clerk of Superior Court at the courthouse in Bolivia, along with the required filing fee. A lawyer can help ensure that important related issues such as property division, alimony, and child custody are properly addressed before the divorce is finalized.

Can I fight a DWI charge in Brunswick County?

Yes, a DWI charge in Brunswick County can be contested in District Court, and there are several potential defenses depending on the facts of your case, including challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the breathalyzer or blood test, or the proper administration of field sobriety tests. North Carolina DWI law is complex, with sentencing determined by a system of aggravating and mitigating factors, so the specific circumstances of your arrest matter greatly. It is strongly advisable to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after a DWI arrest.

What can I do if my Brunswick County contractor did poor work on my new home?

If a contractor performed defective or incomplete work on your home in Brunswick County, you may have legal remedies including a breach of contract claim, a claim under the North Carolina Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act, or a complaint to the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. You can file a civil claim in Brunswick County District Court for amounts up to $25,000 or in Superior Court for larger amounts. Gathering documentation such as your contract, photographs of the defective work, and written communications with the contractor will be important to building your case.

How does the Brunswick County magistrate court work for small claims?

Brunswick County magistrates hear small claims cases involving disputes over money or personal property valued at $10,000 or less, making it a practical option for resolving landlord-tenant disputes, unpaid debts, or minor property damage claims without the expense of a full trial. The process is relatively informal, and many people represent themselves, though having an attorney can still be beneficial in presenting your case effectively. If you disagree with the magistrate's decision, you have the right to appeal to the District Court for a new trial within 10 days of the judgment.

Neighbouring Counties

Brunswick County is bordered by New Hanover County to the north, Columbus County to the northwest, Horry County in South Carolina to the southwest, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, with the Cape Fear River forming much of its northeastern boundary.