Where Love Meets Law: Magistrate Weddings in North Carolina
In this episode, we spotlight the civil wedding ceremonies conducted by North Carolina magistrates. We offer both a behind-the-scenes look at the process of getting married at a courthouse and a touching glimpse into a real wedding held at the Wake County Justice Center.In the first segment, host Chris Mears interviews Wake County Chief Magistrate Christopher Graves, who shares insight into the role magistrates play in officiating weddings. Magistrate Graves walks listeners through a general understanding of the process that couples can expect, and shares his personal experience officiating weddings at the courthouse."Wedding ceremonies present an excellent opportunity for magistrates to show-off their public service skills," said Graves on the podcast. "In Wake County, we take pride in doing everything possible to give the couple the very best experience on their special day."The episode's second segment transports listeners to the Wake County Justice Center, where the podcast team captures audio from a real wedding between Javier and Marielis, a couple who are native Spanish speakers. With assistance from an interpreter, the couple exchanged vows in a ceremony that reflected both the dignity of the occasion and the importance of cultural and linguistic inclusion in the courts. Host Chris Mears also had the privilege of serving as a legal witness to the ceremony.All Things Judicial is the official podcast of the North Carolina Judicial Branch and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.
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In Focus – June News Update
This episode provides an in-depth look at significant developments in the North Carolina Judicial Branch for the month of June. This episode covers:Judicial AppointmentsChief Justice Newby Declared Employee Appreciation WeekeCourts Expansion UpdateeCourts Guide & File MilestoneKiosk ExpansionPreview of next episode of Beyond the Bench
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History on Trial: Revisiting the Mecklenburg Declaration at 250
This episode features a compelling conversation with Kendall Kendrick, Executive Director of the Charlotte Trail of History and the Charlotte Liberty Walk, as well as remarks from Chief Justice Paul Newby delivered at the May 20th anniversary ceremony in Charlotte.In the episode, Kendrick offers unique historical insight into the events of May 1775 and her personal connection as a descendant of the Alexander family—key figures associated with the original declaration. She discusses the ongoing legacy of the Mecklenburg Declaration, its place in Revolutionary War history, and the continued efforts to tell Charlotte’s foundational stories through public history initiatives.Listeners will also hear highlights from Chief Justice Paul Newby’s speech at the 250th commemoration ceremony, where he reflects on the Declaration’s importance to North Carolina’s identity, civic heritage, and the broader American story of liberty."We do hereby declare ourselves a free and independent people, that we are and of right ought to be a sovereign and self-governing people under the power of God," said Newby, quoting the Mecklenburg Declaration, on the podcast. "Today, what do we celebrate when we celebrate the Meck Dec? We celebrate self government under the power of God."All Things Judicial: Beyond the Bench is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen. For more information and to listen to the episode, visit NCcourts.gov.
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In Focus – May News Update
This episode provides an in-depth look at significant developments in the North Carolina Judicial Branch for the month of May. This episode covers:May is Recovery Court Month in North CarolinaExpansion of remote interpreting servicesJudicial appointmentsChief Justice Commission on Professionalism awardseCourts expansion updateHuman Trafficking Commission updatePreview of next episode of Beyond the Bench
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Be Their Voice: Become a Child Advocate in North Carolina
April is recognized as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of safe, supportive environments for all children. In this episode, we spotlight the NC Guardian ad Litem Program and its vital role in advocating for children involved in the state’s foster care system.The episode features conversations with three leaders from the Guardian ad Litem Program:Carolyn Green, Regional AdministratorBrittany McKinney, Staff AttorneyMatthew Wunsche, Appellate CounselTogether, they discuss the urgent need for volunteer child advocates, volunteer attorney advocates, and interns to support the growing need of abused and neglected children in North Carolina’s court system."When I came over to Guardian ad Litem I learned that so many children are under the radar while in the court system," said Green on the podcast. "I hope that people will give of their time and make a difference in a life. When you commit until a child gets back to a safe, permanent home, you can't beat that feeling." The episode serves as both a call to action and an informative look into how volunteers can support the best interests of children experiencing abuse, neglect, or abandonment.To learn more about becoming a Guardian ad Litem volunteer or intern, visit volunteerforgal.org.
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