NC H1078

Phases out special superior court judges effective July 1, 2014, by abolishing each seat when the incumbent judge retires, resigns, is removed, dies, or completes their term.

Transfers appointment authority for business court judges from the Chief Justice to the Governor in consultation with the Chief Justice, allowing appointment of up to three business court judges for an eight-year term.

Permits retired superior court judges under age 76 to serve as emergency judges subject to recall by the Chief Justice, with compensation of $400 per day plus expenses, not to exceed total annual compensation of active judges.

Requires the Judicial Department to utilize emergency superior court judges to perform duties previously handled by abolished special superior court judge positions.

Directs the Judicial Department to evaluate the need for additional regular superior court judges in high-need areas and recommend creation of new judgeships where necessary.