Rule 22 - COURTROOM FIREARMS POLICY22.1 In order to eliminate fear and apprehension by jurors, court personnel and the public; and further, to protect against the accidental discharge of a firearm, notice shall be given to the presiding judge of any firearm intended to be brought to the court facility and offered as evidence or otherwise utilized in courtroom proceedings. Such firearm may be brought into the court facility only upon the prior approval of the presiding judge, and then, only after screening by the appropriate law enforcement official(s). Such firearm shall remain in plain view at all times while in the courtroom and shall never be loaded, even by an expert. Such firearm shall always be equipped with a trigger lock or similar device, and shall never be pointed at anyone at any time. A firearm and ammunition for same shall not be given to a witness or jury at the same time and, once received into evidence, shall be in the care, custody and control of the courtroom clerk, subject to such further orders or directions as the presiding judge may deem appropriate. This firearms policy shall apply to both Civil and Criminal cases.N.C. R. Prac. Sup. & Dist. Ct. Civ. P. 22
Adopted May 30, 2023, effective 5/30/2023.