North Carolina § 161-5 - Vacancy in office.

Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 161-5 — Vacancy in office., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 161-5. Vacancy in office.

Repealed by Session Laws 1991, c. 60, s. 1. When a vacancy occurs from any cause in the office of register of deeds, the board of county commissioners shall fill such vacancy by the appointment of a successor for the unexpired term, who shall qualify and give bond as required by law. If the register of deeds was elected as the nominee of a political party, the board of county commissioners shall consult the county executive committee of that political party before filling the vacancy and shall appoint the person recommended by that committee, if the party makes a recommendation within 30 days of the occurrence of the vacancy. In the interim between a vacancy in the office of register of deeds and the appointment and qualification of a successor register of deeds, under the provisions of subsection (a), any incumbent assistant or deputy register of deeds appointed under G.S. 161-6 prior to the vacancy shall continue to hold office as assistant or deputy registers of deeds until discharged or otherwise lawfully relieved of office by the lawful successor to the office of register of deeds. History (1868, c. 35, s. 4; Code, s. 3649; Rev., s. 2651; C.S., s. 3546; 1965, c. 900; 1975, c. 868, ss. 1, 2; 1977, c. 180; 1981, c. 763, ss. 8, 9, 14; c. 830; 1987, c. 196, s. 2; 1989, c. 497, s. 4; 1989 (Reg. Sess., 1990), c. 1056, s. 1; 1991, c. 14, s. 1; c. 60, ss. 1, 4.) Local Modification. - Burke: 2019-5, s. 2(a); Camden: 1991, c. 376; Chowan: 1991, c. 376; Pasquotank: 1991, c. 376; Perquimans: 1991, c. 376; Wake: 2015-4, s. 1(a). Cross References. - As to validation of acts of assistant and deputy registers of deeds performed pending filling of vacancy in office of register of deeds, see G.S. 161-28.

Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 161-5

What does North Carolina General Statutes § 161-5 cover?

Section 161-5 ("Vacancy in office.") 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 § 161-5?

A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 161-5" (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 § 161-5 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.