Detailed Answer

North Carolina’s trial courts allow most probate filings through an approved electronic filing service under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7A-109. You can e-file petitions for administration, inventories, accountings, motions and other routine papers via the statewide e-filing system. Electronic filing speeds up docketing, reduces paper handling and lets you track filing status in real time.

However, exemplified copies carry special requirements. Under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-39, an exemplified copy must bear the clerk’s original seal and signature and certify that the copy is a true and complete reproduction of the court’s file. The statute contemplates a physical impression of the seal on paper, so courts generally issue exemplified copies only in hard-copy form. You may e-file the request for exemplified copies, but the clerk will produce sealed paper copies and mail or make them available for pickup.

Practically speaking, any document that by statute requires an original seal or handwritten signature will remain a paper document. Examples include:

• Letters testamentary, letters of administration or letters of guardianship issued with the court seal
• Exemplified copies of orders, judgments or wills
• Certified copies of recorded wills or judgments that require county recording seals

If you attempt to upload an electronic PDF of a sealed document, the clerk’s office will not accept it as a substitute for the official exemplified copy. If a local clerk’s office issues a digital seal under administrative policy, check with that office before relying on an electronic version. Always confirm local requirements and refer to the e-Filing statute (G.S. 7A-109) and any published NCAOC e-Filing Manual.

Key Points to Remember

• Most probate pleadings and motions may be filed electronically via an approved vendor.
• Exemplified copies require the clerk’s original seal and signature (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-39).
• You can e-file the request for exemplification but must receive and use the paper copies the clerk issues.
• Documents requiring original notarization or recording seals remain paper-only.
• Always verify local clerk’s office practices and check the latest NCAOC e-Filing Manual.

If you have questions about e-filing, exemplified copies or any probate procedure in North Carolina, our attorneys at Pierce Law Group can help. We handle every stage of administration and ensure you comply with all statutory and local rules. Reach out today by emailing intake@piercelaw.com or calling (919) 341-7055.