Night court is in session

For the first time in our area, Brunswick County held court after hours last night.

Night court is a new initiative aimed at accommodating schedules and creating a little less congestion at the courthouse during the day.

The courtroom is steady with cases, as it is every day, only it is not daytime at all, it is 6:30 at night. Superior Court judge, Ola Lewis, came up with the idea of night court, and Thursday, it became a reality.

“So far, so good. We’ve had quite a few cases,” said Lewis.

Brunswick County’s caseload is growing rapidly, and night court is one way to help. “Despite the fact that we moved 120 percent of the cases, we moved many more than were filed last year, we still have a back log that makes us feel uncomfortable,” said District Attorney Rex Gore.

There are several benefits of this new night session, which only hears pleas for one, it means a less crowded courthouse during the day. “Anyone who has come for court schedule or for jury service has a very difficult time finding a place to park,” added Lewis.

It makes life easier for Attorney Bonner Stiller, also a state representative who spends part of the week in Raleigh. “This is a great opportunity for me to come in on Thursday evening, when we do hold court, and get some of my cases taken care of as well,” he said.

Going to court after business hours can also help out defendants who work during the day. Lewis said, “This benefits them to continue to work and to get their matters disposed of in a timely fashion.”

Everyone involved is excited to see what night court will become; perhaps leading the way for other counties to dispense justice after dark.

During its trial period, night court will be held once a month for the next six months.