North Carolina § 47-12 - 1. Proof of attested instrument by proof of handwriting.

Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 47-12 — 1. Proof of attested instrument by proof of handwriting., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 47-12. 1. Proof of attested instrument by proof of handwriting.

If all subscribing witnesses have died or have left the State or have become of unsound mind or otherwise incompetent or unavailable, the execution of such instrument, except as provided by G.S. 47-12.2, may be proved for registration, before any official authorized by law to take proof of such an instrument, by a statement under oath that the affiant knows the handwriting of the maker and that the purported signature of the maker is in the handwriting of the maker, or by a statement under oath that the affiant knows the handwriting of a particular subscribing witness and that the purported signature of such subscribing witness is in the handwriting of such subscribing witness. Nothing in this section in anywise affects any of the requirements set out in G.S. 52-10 or 52-10.1. History (1899, c. 235, s. 12; Rev., s. 997; C.S., s. 3303; 1935, c. 168; 1937, c. 7; 1945, c. 73, s. 11; 1947, c. 991, s. 1; 1949, c. 815, ss. 1, 2; 1951, c. 379, s. 1; 1977, c. 375, s. 12.)

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

Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 47-12

What does North Carolina General Statutes § 47-12 cover?

Section 47-12 ("1. Proof of attested instrument by proof of handwriting.") 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 § 47-12?

A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 47-12" (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 § 47-12 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.