North Carolina § 131E-144 - 6. Enforcement and investigation.
Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 131E-144 — 6. Enforcement and investigation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 131E-144. 6. Enforcement and investigation.
The Department of Health and Human Services shall be responsible for enforcing the provisions of this Part. The Department shall investigate complaints made to it and reply within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed 60 days. When the Department of Health and Human Services receives a complaint alleging a violation of the provisions of this Part pertaining to client care or client safety, the Department shall initiate an investigation as follows: Immediately upon receipt of the complaint if the complaint alleges a life-threatening situation. Within 24 hours if the complaint alleges abuse of a client as defined by G.S. 131D-20(1). Within 48 hours if the complaint alleges neglect of a client as defined by G.S. 131D-20(8). Within two weeks in all other situations. A home care agency shall investigate, within 72 hours, complaints made to the agency by a home care client or the client's family and must document both the existence of the complaint and the resolution of the complaint. The investigation shall be completed within 30 days. The requirements of this section are in addition to and not in lieu of any investigatory and reporting requirements for health care personnel pursuant to Article 15 of this Chapter, or for adult protective services pursuant to Article 6 of Chapter 108A of the General Statutes. History (2005-276, s. 10.40A(n).)
Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 131E-144
What does North Carolina General Statutes § 131E-144 cover?
Section 131E-144 ("6. Enforcement and investigation.") is part of the North Carolina General Statutes, the codified statutory law of North Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite North Carolina § 131E-144?
A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 131E-144" (North Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of North Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.
How does North Carolina § 131E-144 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Carolina.