NC DVPO What a DVPO is
A Domestic Violence Protective Order (a "DVPO," sometimes called a "50B order" after Chapter 50B of the North Carolina General Statutes) is a civil court order that protects someone from a person they have a personal relationship with. It can order the other person to stop abusing or contacting you, stay away from your home, school, or work, surrender firearms, and address temporary custody, support, and possession of the home.
Who can file (a "personal relationship")
Chapter 50B applies only where the parties have a personal relationship — current or former spouses, people who live or lived together, people in a current or former dating relationship, parents and children, and people who share a child. People without such a relationship may instead pursue a Chapter 50C civil no-contact order.
What counts as "domestic violence"
Under § 50B-1, domestic violence includes attempting or intentionally causing bodily injury; placing a person (or their family or household member) in fear of imminent serious bodily injury or continued harassment that rises to substantial emotional distress; or committing certain sex offenses.
Ex parte (emergency) vs. the full hearing
If there is immediate danger, a judge can enter an ex parte temporary order the same day, based on the filer's testimony. A full hearing — where both sides appear — must be held within 10 days of the ex parte order or 7 days from service on the defendant, whichever is later (§ 50B-2(c)(5)), and it has priority on the court calendar. At that hearing the court decides whether to enter a one-year DVPO.
How long it lasts & renewals
A DVPO can last up to one year and may be renewed for up to two years at a time on a motion filed before it expires. Renewal does not require a new act of violence, but the person seeking renewal must still show good cause — courts emphasize a continued, legitimate need for protection supported by specific findings, not vague or conclusory fear. Our renewal & modification guide covers the standard, the deadlines, and what both sides should bring.
Firearms
If the court makes certain findings listed in § 50B-3.1 (such as use or threats of a deadly weapon, threats to kill or seriously injure, or threats of suicide), the DVPO requires the defendant to surrender firearms, ammunition, and any concealed-carry permit to the sheriff while the order is in effect — and federal law may independently bar firearm possession after a full hearing.
Filing a DVPO in Wake County
- Where
- Wake County Courthouse — Room 527, 5th floor
- Address
- 316 Fayetteville St., Raleigh, NC 27601
- Hours
- New filings 8:30am–3:30pm weekdays
- Clerk (DV)
- 919-792-4110
- E-filing
- NC e-filing portal
- Advocacy
- InterAct of Wake County
⚠️ Preview county — confirm the room, hours, and process locally.
There is no filing fee for a DVPO in North Carolina. Court advocates can help you complete the complaint (Form AOC-CV-303) and prepare for the hearing.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to file a DVPO in North Carolina?
There is no court filing fee to seek a domestic violence protective order under Chapter 50B, and the sheriff serves it at no cost. A domestic-violence advocate can help you file for free.
How fast can I get a protective order in North Carolina?
If you are in immediate danger, a judge can grant an emergency ex parte order the same day you file. A full hearing for a one-year DVPO is usually held within about 10 days.
Do I need a lawyer to file for a DVPO?
No — you can file on your own, and court advocates can assist. Many people still consult an attorney when custody, firearms, or contested facts are involved.
Can a DVPO decide custody in North Carolina?
Yes. A DVPO can include temporary custody and visitation, but those are temporary; lasting custody is decided under Chapter 50.
Can a North Carolina DVPO be renewed?
Yes, on a motion filed before it expires, for up to two years at a time. The person seeking renewal must show good cause — a continued, legitimate need for protection supported by specific findings.