A misdemeanor statement of charges is a criminal pleading prepared by the prosecutor, charging a misdemeanor. A statement of charges is a type of pleading, but is not a form of process, and cannot be used to initiate a prosecution and compel the defendant to appear. See G.S. 15A-922(b)(1). A prosecutor’s failure to sign an indictment does not invalidate the indictment. G.S. 15A-644(a)(4). An initial appearance may be held before a magistrate anywhere within the state. See G.S. 7A-273(7). If evidence is excluded by the trial court, the proponent of the evidence generally must provide an adequate offer of proof regarding the nature of the excluded evidence in order to argue on appeal that the evidence should have been allowed. See G.S. 8C-103(a)(2). Whichever county is the first to bring charges against the defendant has exclusive venue. See G.S. 15A-132. But if the county with exclusive venue dismisses the charges, another county with concurrent venue may initiate its own charges and obtain venue.
Today, we want to highlight one of the people who truly brings the School of Government’s mission to life. After more than 30 years of service to the UNC School of Government, Professor John Rubin is retiring. He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a revered teacher, trusted advisor, renowned author, and mentor. As the first faculty member to work on...
NC Criminal Law
on Tuesday, March 24th, 2026
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