N.C. R. Prac. Sup. & Dist. Ct. Civ. P. 24

As amended through June 18, 2024

Rule 24 - Pretrial Conference in Capital Cases

There shall be a pretrial conference in every case in which the defendant stands charged with a crime punishable by death. No later than ten days after the superior court obtains jurisdiction in such a case, the district attorney shall apply to the presiding superior court judge or other superior court judge holding court in the district, who shall enter an order requiring the prosecution and defense counsel to appear before the court within forty-five days thereafter for the pretrial conference. Upon request of either party at the pretrial conference the judge may for good cause shown continue the pretrial conference for a reasonable time.

At the pretrial conference, the court and the parties shall consider:

(1) simplification and formulation of the issues, including, but not limited to, the nature of the charges against the defendant, and the existence of evidence of aggravating circumstances;

(2) timely appointment of assistant counsel for an indigent defendant when the State is seeking the death penalty; and

(3) such other matters as may aid in the disposition of the action.

The judge shall enter an order that recites that the pretrial conference took place, and any other actions taken at the pretrial conference.

This rule does not affect the rights of the defense or the prosecution to request, or the court's authority to grant, any relief authorized by law, including but not limited to appointment of assistant counsel, in advance of the pretrial conference.

N.c. R. Prac. Sup. & Dist. Ct. Civ. P. 24

336 N.C. 789.
Amended June 18, 2024, effective 6/18/2024.