About Craven County

Craven County is situated in the coastal plain of eastern North Carolina, where the Neuse and Trent rivers converge before flowing toward the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Covering approximately 774 square miles, the county encompasses a diverse landscape of riverfront communities, dense pine forests, pocosins, and wetlands that define the character of North Carolina's Inner Banks region. Its waterways have shaped the identity of the county for centuries, drawing settlers, traders, and military installations that continue to define daily life today. The county's proximity to the coast gives it a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination for retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, and families seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to urban amenities. With a population of approximately 100,720 residents, Craven County is one of the more populous counties in eastern North Carolina, serving as a regional hub for commerce, healthcare, and government services. The county seat, New Bern, is one of the oldest towns in North Carolina, founded in 1710 by Swiss and German settlers and named after Bern, Switzerland. New Bern is celebrated for its remarkably well-preserved colonial and antebellum architecture, its vibrant downtown waterfront, and its distinction as the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola. The city draws tourists year-round and supports a thriving arts community, boutique economy, and a growing healthcare sector anchored by CarolinaEast Medical Center. The economy of Craven County is diverse and anchored by several major pillars. Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, located in the community of Havelock, is the county's largest employer and one of the most significant military installations on the East Coast, supporting thousands of active-duty personnel, civilian contractors, and their families. Beyond the military presence, the county's economy includes manufacturing, healthcare, retail, tourism, and agriculture. The Neuse River and surrounding waterways support commercial fishing and recreational boating industries, while the historic downtown of New Bern continues to attract small business investment. This blend of military culture, colonial heritage, and coastal living gives Craven County a uniquely layered character that distinguishes it from many of its neighboring communities.

Practice Areas in Craven 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 Craven County

Craven County is served by the North Carolina General Court of Justice, which operates through the 3rd Judicial District. The Craven County Courthouse, located at 302 Broad Street in New Bern, houses both the Superior Court and the District Court. The District Court handles matters including misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic infractions, small claims disputes up to $10,000, civil cases, juvenile proceedings, and family law matters such as child custody, child support, and domestic violence protective orders. The Superior Court handles felony criminal cases, civil matters involving amounts greater than $25,000, and appeals from District Court decisions. Magistrate courts also operate within the county to handle minor civil claims, issue warrants, conduct first appearances in criminal cases, and perform civil marriage ceremonies. For matters involving wills, estates, and guardianships, the Clerk of Superior Court at the same courthouse administers the Estates Division.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Craven County

In Craven County, the distinction between state and federal court jurisdiction is important for residents to understand when facing legal matters. The vast majority of cases — including traffic offenses, family law disputes, state criminal charges, landlord-tenant issues, and most civil lawsuits — are handled in state courts at the Craven County Courthouse in New Bern. Federal matters, such as cases involving federal crimes, bankruptcy, immigration, Social Security appeals, civil rights violations under federal law, or disputes between citizens of different states exceeding $75,000, are heard in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, with the nearest divisional courthouse located in New Bern at 413 Middle Street. Given the presence of MCAS Cherry Point, federal jurisdiction can also arise in matters involving military personnel, federal contractors, or crimes committed on federal installations, making it especially relevant for a significant portion of Craven County's population.

Common Legal Situations in Craven County

Residents of Craven County encounter a wide range of legal situations that reflect the county's military, coastal, and semi-rural character. Traffic violations and DWI charges are among the most frequently handled matters in District Court, particularly along the US-70 corridor connecting New Bern and Havelock. Family law matters — including divorce, child custody disputes, child support modifications, and domestic violence protective orders — represent a significant portion of court filings, in part due to the frequency of military family separations and relocations associated with MCAS Cherry Point. Landlord-tenant disputes are common as the area's rental market supports a large transient military population. Criminal matters ranging from misdemeanor drug offenses to felony charges also arise regularly, and residents working on or near federal installations may occasionally face issues of federal employment law or contractor disputes. Estate planning and probate matters are increasingly relevant as the county's retiree population continues to grow.

Why Go To Court for Craven County Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is a trusted choice for Craven County residents seeking reliable legal representation across a wide range of matters. With a 24/7 free legal hotline, residents can get answers to urgent legal questions at any hour — whether dealing with a DWI arrest in the middle of the night or navigating a custody emergency. Go To Court's experienced team understands the nuances of North Carolina law and the specific courts serving Craven County, ensuring clients receive informed and locally relevant guidance. Fixed-fee arrangements are coming soon, giving residents greater certainty and transparency around the cost of their legal representation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket in Craven County?

If you receive a traffic ticket in Craven County, you have the option to pay the fine, plead not guilty and request a court date, or in some cases enter a prayer for judgment continued to avoid points on your license. It is often worth consulting an attorney before simply paying a ticket, as a conviction can add insurance points and potentially affect your driving privileges. A lawyer familiar with Craven County District Court can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges.

How does child custody work in Craven County when one parent is military?

Child custody cases in Craven County involving military parents are handled in District Court and follow North Carolina's best interest of the child standard, while also taking into account federal protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. Military deployment and frequent relocations can complicate custody arrangements, and courts are experienced in crafting orders that account for these realities. It is strongly advisable to have a detailed parenting plan and a family care plan in place well before any deployment occurs.

What is the process for filing for divorce in Craven County, North Carolina?

To file for an absolute divorce in Craven County, at least one spouse must have been a North Carolina resident for six months, and the couple must have lived separately for at least one year. The spouse initiating the divorce files a complaint with the Craven County Clerk of Superior Court and serves the other party, after which a hearing is typically scheduled. North Carolina is a no-fault divorce state, meaning neither party needs to prove wrongdoing, though issues like property division and alimony should ideally be resolved before or alongside the divorce proceeding.

Can I expunge a criminal record in North Carolina if I live in Craven County?

Yes, North Carolina law allows for the expunction of certain criminal records, and Craven County residents can petition the Superior Court in New Bern to have eligible charges removed from their record. Eligibility depends on the nature of the charge, the outcome of the case, your age at the time of the offense, and whether you have prior expunctions or convictions. An attorney can review your record and determine whether you qualify and help you navigate the expunction petition process.

What options do I have if my landlord is withholding my security deposit in Craven County?

Under North Carolina law, landlords in Craven County must return your security deposit within 30 days of the tenancy ending, or provide an itemized written statement of any deductions within that period. If your landlord fails to comply, you may be entitled to sue for the full deposit amount plus damages in small claims court at the Craven County Courthouse. Filing a small claims action is a relatively straightforward process, but consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and strengthen your claim.

Neighbouring Counties

Craven County is bordered by Pamlico County to the east, Jones County to the west, Onslow County to the south, Carteret County to the southeast, and Lenoir County to the northwest.