Orange County Warrant Search
How To Check for Warrants in Orange County in 2026
OrangeNCRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to warrant records in Orange County, North Carolina. Members of the public may find data pertaining to arrest warrants, bench warrants, criminal case records, court filings, and related judicial documents. Record availability depends on the issuing authority and the current status of the case. Information presented through this resource reflects publicly accessible data and does not constitute legal advice.
Members of the public seeking warrant information in Orange County may access records through several official channels. The Orange County Sheriff's Office maintains warrant-related records and can respond to non-emergency inquiries. The Orange County Clerk of Superior Court provides access to court case files, including bench warrant status, through the North Carolina Courts portal. The North Carolina Courts case search allows members of the public to search by name for active case information statewide.
Why Check for Warrants:
- Avoid unexpected arrest during a routine traffic stop or other law enforcement encounter
- Resolve outstanding legal obligations proactively before they compound
- Clear up misunderstandings resulting from clerical errors or mistaken identity
- Handle legal matters responsibly and demonstrate good faith to the court
- Obtain peace of mind regarding one's standing with the judicial system
Warning Signs You May Have a Warrant:
- A court appearance was missed, whether intentional or due to scheduling error
- Court-ordered fines or costs remain unpaid beyond the deadline
- Probation terms were violated, including missed check-ins or failed drug tests
- Pending charges were filed and no subsequent court notice was received
- A traffic stop resulted in release with a warning rather than a citation
- A notice to appear was received but the scheduled date was not honored
Methods to Check for Warrants:
1. Online Warrant Search
The North Carolina Courts system provides a publicly accessible court date and case information search that allows individuals to search by name for active cases, including those with outstanding bench warrants. The Orange County Sheriff's Office may also maintain a warrant inquiry function through its official web presence. Online searches are free, updated on a regular basis, and display active warrant status, associated charges, and bond amounts where applicable.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Members of the public may contact the Orange County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line to inquire about warrant status. Callers should provide their full legal name and date of birth. Anonymous inquiries may not be accommodated in all circumstances, and individuals should be aware that a confirmed warrant may prompt follow-up action.
Orange County Sheriff's Office
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2900
Orange County Sheriff's Office
3. Visit the Sheriff's Office or Police Department
Members of the public may appear in person at the Sheriff's Office records window to request a warrant check. A valid government-issued photo identification is required. Individuals should be aware that if an active warrant is confirmed during an in-person visit, law enforcement personnel are obligated to execute that warrant immediately.
Orange County Sheriff's Office
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Orange County Sheriff's Office
4. Contact the Court
The Clerk of Superior Court maintains case files that include bench warrant status. Court staff can confirm whether a warrant has been issued in connection with a specific case. The Clerk's office does not initiate arrests, but an active warrant remains enforceable regardless of how it is discovered.
Orange County Clerk of Superior Court
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2500
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Orange County Courthouse – NC Courts
5. Hire an Attorney
Retaining legal counsel is the safest method for individuals who have reason to believe a warrant may exist. Communications between an attorney and client are protected by attorney-client privilege. An attorney may verify warrant status, explain the nature of the charges, and arrange a voluntary surrender under controlled conditions. The North Carolina State Bar Lawyer Referral Service can assist members of the public in locating qualified legal representation.
6. Third-Party Background Check Services
Commercial background check services may display warrant-related information, but accuracy and currency of data vary significantly among providers. These services charge fees for information that is available at no cost through official government sources. Members of the public are advised to verify any results obtained through commercial services against official county and state records.
What Information You'll Need:
- Full legal name as it appears on government-issued identification
- Any aliases or former names used
- Date of birth
- Social Security number, which may be requested in certain inquiries
- Previous addresses within Orange County
Important Warnings:
Risk of Immediate Arrest: Appearing in person at a law enforcement facility to inquire about a warrant carries the risk of immediate arrest if an active warrant is confirmed. Sheriff's deputies are legally obligated to execute valid warrants upon contact with the named subject. Individuals who suspect a warrant may exist are strongly advised to consult an attorney before making in-person inquiries.
Don't Delay: Warrants do not expire under North Carolina law and remain active indefinitely until executed or recalled by the issuing court. An unresolved warrant may result in additional charges, including failure to appear, and can be discovered during any routine law enforcement encounter such as a traffic stop.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not ignore a possible warrant in the hope that it will resolve without action
- Do not provide false identifying information to law enforcement
- Do not resist if law enforcement attempts to execute a warrant
- Do not flee or attempt to evade service of a warrant
- Do not assume a warrant has expired or been dismissed without official confirmation
What Is a Search Warrant in Orange County?
A search warrant is a legal document issued by a neutral judicial officer that authorizes law enforcement to enter and search a specified location and seize described items. Under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, members of the public are protected against unreasonable searches and seizures, and law enforcement must obtain judicial authorization before conducting most searches. The North Carolina Constitution, Article I, Section 20, provides parallel protections at the state level.
Purpose of Search Warrants:
- Protect the privacy rights of individuals against arbitrary government intrusion
- Prevent unreasonable searches by requiring prior judicial approval
- Balance legitimate law enforcement investigative needs with constitutional rights
- Ensure judicial oversight of police actions before, not after, a search occurs
- Provide a lawful mechanism for gathering evidence in criminal investigations
Legal Requirements:
Under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-244, a search warrant application must include a statement of facts establishing probable cause, an identification of the premises or person to be searched, and a description of the items to be seized. The warrant must be issued by a magistrate or judge upon a finding that probable cause exists, supported by oath or affirmation. The particularity requirement mandates that the warrant describe with specificity both the location to be searched and the items to be seized, preventing general exploratory searches.
When Search Warrants Are Used:
- Drug offense investigations requiring entry into residences or vehicles
- Theft and property crime cases where stolen goods may be located
- White-collar crime investigations involving financial records or documents
- Violent crime cases where weapons or physical evidence must be recovered
- Digital evidence collection from computers, mobile phones, and electronic storage
- Contraband seizure in connection with ongoing criminal investigations
Difference from Other Warrants:
- Search warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to enter a location and seize specified property
- Arrest warrant: Authorizes law enforcement to take a named individual into custody
- Bench warrant: A court order issued for failure to comply with a prior court directive
- These warrant types are legally distinct and are not interchangeable in their authority or application
Are Warrants Public Records in Orange County?
Warrants in Orange County are subject to the North Carolina Public Records Law, which establishes a general presumption of public access to government records. The North Carolina Public Records Law, N.C. Gen. Stat. § 132-1, defines public records broadly and requires that government agencies make such records available for inspection and copying unless a specific statutory exemption applies.
When Warrants Become Public:
Search warrants are treated differently depending on their execution status. Before a search warrant is executed, it is sealed to protect the integrity of the investigation, prevent the destruction of evidence, and preserve the element of surprise. After execution, the warrant, supporting affidavit, and inventory of seized items become part of the public court record and are accessible through the Clerk of Superior Court.
Arrest warrants, once issued, are entered into law enforcement databases and are accessible to the public. Active arrest warrants display the subject's name, charges, bond amount, and issuing court. After an arrest is made, the warrant becomes part of the permanent court case file.
Exceptions and Sealed Warrants:
Certain warrants may remain sealed beyond the point of execution. Circumstances that may justify continued sealing include:
- Ongoing criminal investigations where disclosure would compromise the case
- Grand jury proceedings, which are confidential under North Carolina law
- Cases involving confidential informants whose identities require protection
- Juvenile proceedings, which are subject to separate confidentiality provisions
- National security matters or cases involving sensitive investigative techniques
The duration of sealing is determined by the presiding judge and may extend for months or years. Most sealed warrants eventually become accessible to the public, though certain portions may be permanently redacted to protect confidential sources or methods.
What's Publicly Available:
- Active arrest warrant information through law enforcement databases
- Executed search warrant documents filed with the Clerk of Court
- Probable cause affidavits supporting executed warrants
- Inventories of items seized pursuant to search warrants
- Court case files that incorporate warrant documents
What's Restricted:
- Unexecuted search warrants that remain under seal
- Warrants sealed by judicial order during active investigations
- Portions of affidavits identifying confidential informants
- Materials related to grand jury proceedings
- Certain law enforcement techniques described in warrant applications
How Much Does It Cost to Get Warrant Records in Orange County?
The North Carolina Public Records Law governs the fees that public agencies may charge for access to records. Members of the public may inspect public records, including warrant documents on file with the Clerk of Superior Court, at no charge. Fees are assessed when copies are requested.
| Record Type | Standard Fee |
|---|---|
| Paper copies (black and white) | $0.25 per page |
| Certified copies of court documents | $3.00 per document |
| Electronic copies (where available) | Varies by agency |
| Search fee | No statutory search fee in North Carolina |
The North Carolina Courts system provides free online access to case information, including warrant status, through the NC Courts case search portal. Members of the public may access this resource without charge. Certified copies of court records must be obtained through the Clerk of Superior Court and are subject to the fees established by N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7A-308.
Accepted payment methods at the Orange County Clerk of Superior Court include cash, money order, and credit or debit card. Fee waiver provisions may apply in cases of demonstrated indigency, subject to the discretion of the Clerk's office.
What Types of Warrants Exist in Orange County
1. Arrest Warrants
An arrest warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take a named individual into custody based on a finding of probable cause that the person has committed a criminal offense. Arrest warrants are issued by a magistrate or judge and remain active until the subject is arrested or the warrant is recalled by the court. They may be issued in connection with felony charges, serious misdemeanor offenses, or following a grand jury indictment. The warrant identifies the subject by name and physical description, specifies the charges and applicable statutes, sets a bond amount, and directs any law enforcement officer in the state to execute the warrant.
2. Bench Warrants
A bench warrant is issued directly by a judge during the course of court proceedings, most frequently for failure to appear at a scheduled court date. Bench warrants are also issued for failure to pay court-ordered fines, violation of probation terms, contempt of court, or failure to complete court-ordered programs. Unlike arrest warrants, bench warrants arise from a violation of a court directive rather than the commission of a new criminal offense. They may be recalled if the underlying issue is resolved promptly, and an attorney may file a motion to recall a bench warrant on behalf of a client.
3. Search Warrants
A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to enter and search a specifically described location and to seize items described with particularity in the warrant. Search warrants are distinct from arrest warrants and do not authorize the arrest of any individual unless an arrest warrant is separately obtained. Under North Carolina law, search warrants must be executed within 48 hours of issuance and must be returned to the issuing magistrate or judge upon execution, along with an inventory of all items seized.
4. No-Knock Warrants
A no-knock warrant is a specialized form of search warrant that authorizes law enforcement to enter a premises without prior announcement. Such warrants are issued when a judge finds that prior announcement would create a risk of evidence destruction, endanger the safety of officers or others, or allow a dangerous suspect to escape. No-knock warrants are subject to heightened judicial scrutiny and require specific factual justification in the supporting affidavit. North Carolina law does not categorically prohibit no-knock warrants but requires judicial authorization for each instance of no-knock entry.
5. Governor's Warrants (Extradition)
A governor's warrant is issued by the Governor of North Carolina to authorize the arrest and extradition of a fugitive who is wanted in another state. The process is governed by the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act, which North Carolina has adopted. When another state requests extradition of a fugitive located in North Carolina, the requesting state's governor submits a formal demand to the North Carolina Governor's office. Upon review, the North Carolina Governor may issue a governor's warrant directing law enforcement to arrest the fugitive and hold the individual pending transfer to the requesting state. The subject has the right to challenge extradition through a writ of habeas corpus.
6. Capias Warrants (Civil Contempt)
A capias warrant is issued in civil proceedings to compel the appearance of a party who has failed to comply with a court order, most frequently in matters involving child support or civil contempt. Although arising from civil rather than criminal proceedings, a capias warrant authorizes the arrest of the named individual. Release is typically conditioned upon payment of a specified purge amount or compliance with the underlying court order.
7. Material Witness Warrants
A material witness warrant may be issued to compel the appearance of a witness who has failed to respond to a subpoena or who is believed to be avoiding service. These warrants are relatively uncommon and are reserved for situations in which a witness's testimony is essential to a criminal proceeding and voluntary appearance cannot be secured.
Traffic Warrants:
Failure to appear on a traffic citation or failure to pay traffic fines may result in the issuance of a warrant. Traffic warrants are entered into the same law enforcement databases as criminal warrants and may be discovered during any subsequent traffic stop. Bond amounts for traffic warrants are typically lower than those for criminal warrants, and resolution may be accomplished by appearing in traffic court and addressing the underlying citation.
Probation and Parole Violation Warrants:
When a probation officer determines that a probationer has violated the terms of supervision, the officer may petition the court for a warrant authorizing the arrest of the probationer. These warrants are issued by the supervising judge and may carry no bond or a high bond amount, reflecting the court's concern about compliance. A hearing before the judge is required before any modification of the probation sentence may be imposed.
Federal Warrants:
Federal warrants are issued by United States District Court judges or federal magistrate judges and are distinct from county-level warrants. Federal warrants are enforced by federal agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Marshals Service. Orange County falls within the jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina. Federal warrants are not reflected in county warrant databases and require separate inquiry through federal channels.
What Warrants in Orange County Contain
Standard Information in All Warrants:
Every warrant issued in Orange County includes identifying header information such as the name of the issuing court, the case number, the name of the presiding judge or magistrate, the warrant number, and the date of issuance. The body of the warrant identifies the subject by full legal name, any known aliases, date of birth, physical description including height, weight, race, eye color, hair color, and identifying marks, as well as the last known address.
Specific to Arrest Warrants:
An arrest warrant specifies the criminal offense or offenses charged, the applicable statute or statutes violated, the degree of the offense, the number of counts, and the date of the alleged criminal conduct. The warrant includes a probable cause statement summarizing the facts supporting the charge, a reference to the supporting affidavit or criminal complaint, and the bond amount set by the court. The bond section specifies the type of bond authorized, which may be cash, surety, personal recognizance, or no bond, along with any conditions of release. The warrant concludes with the judge's original signature, the court seal, and execution instructions directing any law enforcement officer in the state to arrest the named subject.
Specific to Search Warrants:
A search warrant contains a detailed description of the premises to be searched, including the complete street address, physical description of the structure, unit or apartment number if applicable, and distinguishing features sufficient to identify the location without ambiguity. The warrant enumerates with specificity the items to be seized, organized by category, which may include contraband, stolen property, evidence of crimes, instrumentalities of criminal activity, digital devices and data, financial records, and documents. The probable cause affidavit attached to the warrant provides a detailed narrative of the officer's investigation, the basis for believing evidence will be found at the described location, and the timeliness of the information supporting the application. Search warrants in North Carolina must be executed within 48 hours of issuance and must be returned to the issuing court with an inventory of all items seized.
Specific to Bench Warrants:
A bench warrant identifies the court order that was violated, the original case number and charges, the specific court date that was missed or obligation that was not fulfilled, and the bond amount set by the judge. The warrant may include a purge amount, which is the sum the subject must pay to secure release, and conditions for resolution of the warrant short of incarceration.
Confidential Portions:
Certain portions of warrant documents may be redacted or sealed, including the identities of confidential informants, descriptions of ongoing investigative techniques, addresses of protected witnesses, and information that could compromise active investigations. Redacted materials remain part of the court file but are not accessible to the public until the sealing order is lifted by the court.
Who Issues Warrants in Orange County
Judicial Authority Required:
The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution requires that warrants be issued by a neutral and detached magistrate upon a showing of probable cause. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors do not have independent authority to issue warrants. This separation of functions ensures judicial oversight of the warrant process and protects the constitutional rights of individuals.
Judges and Courts with Authority:
1. Superior Court Judges
The Orange County Superior Court has full authority to issue all categories of warrants, including arrest warrants, search warrants, and bench warrants in felony cases. Superior Court judges preside over felony criminal proceedings and complex civil matters.
Orange County Superior Court
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2500
Orange County Superior Court – NC Courts
2. District Court Judges
The Orange County District Court has authority to issue warrants in misdemeanor cases, traffic matters, and civil proceedings. District Court judges also issue bench warrants in cases pending before the District Court.
Orange County District Court
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2500
Orange County District Court – NC Courts
3. Magistrates
Magistrates in North Carolina are appointed judicial officers with authority to issue initial arrest warrants, search warrants, and set bond amounts. Magistrates are available around the clock to review warrant applications from law enforcement officers, including after regular court hours. The magistrate's office is located within the Orange County Courthouse complex.
Orange County Magistrate's Office
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2500
Available: 24 hours per day, 7 days per week
NC Courts – Orange County
Who Requests Warrants:
Orange County Sheriff's Office:
Sheriff's deputies and investigators present probable cause affidavits to magistrates or judges when requesting arrest or search warrants. The Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency with countywide jurisdiction in Orange County.
Orange County Sheriff's Office
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2900
Orange County Sheriff's Office
Chapel Hill Police Department:
Officers of the Chapel Hill Police Department may request warrants for offenses occurring within the town limits of Chapel Hill.
Chapel Hill Police Department
828 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Phone: (919) 968-2760
Chapel Hill Police Department
Carrboro Police Department:
Officers of the Carrboro Police Department may request warrants for offenses occurring within the town limits of Carrboro.
Carrboro Police Department
301 W. Main St., Carrboro, NC 27510
Phone: (919) 918-7397
Carrboro Police Department
Orange County District Attorney's Office:
The District Attorney's office reviews investigations, determines charges, and may request arrest warrants in connection with felony prosecutions. Assistant district attorneys are available on an on-call basis to review warrant applications after regular business hours.
Orange County District Attorney's Office
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2150
NC District Attorneys – Prosecutorial District 15B
The Warrant Issuance Process:
The warrant issuance process in Orange County follows a structured sequence. A law enforcement officer conducts an investigation and gathers evidence sufficient to establish probable cause. The officer then prepares a sworn affidavit detailing the facts supporting the warrant application. The affidavit is presented to a magistrate or judge, who reviews the document, may ask clarifying questions, and makes an independent determination as to whether probable cause exists. If the judicial officer finds probable cause, the warrant is signed and becomes effective immediately. The signed warrant is entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database and distributed to law enforcement for execution. If the judicial officer finds the affidavit insufficient, the warrant is denied, and the officer may supplement the application with additional information or decline to proceed.
Who CANNOT Issue Warrants:
- Law enforcement officers acting without judicial authorization
- Prosecutors acting independently without judicial review
- Administrative agencies, except in narrowly defined regulatory contexts
- Private citizens, who have no authority to issue judicial warrants
How To Find Outstanding Warrants in Orange County
Outstanding warrants are warrants that have been issued by a court but have not yet been executed, meaning the named subject has not been taken into custody. Outstanding warrants remain active in law enforcement databases indefinitely and may be discovered during any encounter with law enforcement, including routine traffic stops, background checks, or booking on an unrelated matter.
Methods to Find Outstanding Warrants:
1. Online Warrant Database
The NC Courts case search portal allows members of the public to search for active cases by name, including cases with outstanding bench warrants. The search returns case status information, associated charges, and warrant details where applicable. This resource is free, publicly accessible, and updated on a regular basis. Members of the public should be aware that warrants issued within the preceding 24 to 48 hours may not yet appear in the online system due to processing delays.
2. County Most Wanted List
The Orange County Sheriff's Office may maintain a most wanted list featuring individuals with active warrants for serious offenses. This resource is not comprehensive and reflects only a subset of outstanding warrants, prioritized by the severity of the offense and the level of law enforcement interest in locating the subject.
3. Direct Contact with Law Enforcement
Orange County Sheriff's Office Warrants Division
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2900
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Orange County Sheriff's Office
Members of the public may contact the Sheriff's Office by telephone to inquire about outstanding warrants. Staff can check the warrant database by name and date of birth. Individuals who appear in person should be aware of the risk of immediate arrest if a warrant is confirmed.
4. Through an Attorney
Retaining an attorney to conduct a warrant inquiry is the safest available method for individuals who have reason to believe a warrant may exist. The attorney-client privilege protects communications made in the course of seeking legal advice, and an attorney may conduct the inquiry without triggering an immediate arrest. If a warrant is confirmed, the attorney can arrange a voluntary surrender, negotiate bond conditions, and appear with the client at the initial hearing. The North Carolina State Bar Lawyer Referral Service connects members of the public with qualified attorneys in the relevant practice area.
5. Clerk of Court
Orange County Clerk of Superior Court
106 E. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Phone: (919) 245-2500
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Orange County Courthouse – NC Courts
The Clerk of Superior Court maintains case files that reflect the current status of all pending matters, including whether a bench warrant has been issued. Public access terminals are available in the courthouse for self-service case searches. Clerk's office staff can assist members of the public in locating case information. The Clerk's office does not initiate arrests, but an active warrant remains enforceable regardless of the manner in which it is discovered.
6. Statewide Resources
The North Carolina Courts statewide case search provides access to case information across all 100 North Carolina counties. Members of the public who have had legal matters in multiple counties are advised to search each relevant jurisdiction, as warrant databases are not always consolidated across county lines.
Interpreting Search Results:
If a warrant is found, the individual should record the warrant number, charges, bond amount, issuing court, and issue date. The warrant should not be ignored. An attorney should be consulted before any further action is taken, including voluntary surrender. If no warrant is found, the individual may wish to verify the result through multiple official sources, as recently issued warrants may not yet appear in all databases.
Limitations of Online Searches:
Online warrant searches reflect information that has been entered into the relevant database at the time of the search. Warrants issued within the preceding hours or days may not yet appear. Sealed warrants are not visible in public databases. Federal warrants are maintained in separate federal systems and are not reflected in county or state databases. Members of the public should treat online search results as informational rather than definitive.
How Long Do Warrants Last In Orange County?
Under North Carolina law, arrest warrants and bench warrants do not expire. Once issued, a warrant remains active and enforceable until it is executed by law enforcement or recalled by the issuing court. There is no statutory time limit on the validity of an outstanding warrant. A warrant may be recalled if the underlying charges are dismissed, if the subject voluntarily surrenders and the court recalls the warrant upon appearance, or if an attorney successfully moves the court to recall the warrant. The absence of a statute of limitations on warrant validity means that an individual may encounter an outstanding warrant years or even decades after it was issued. North Carolina's warrant procedures are governed by N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-301, which addresses the form and content of criminal process, including warrants. Search warrants are an exception to the general rule of indefinite validity: under North Carolina law, a search warrant must be executed within 48 hours of issuance or it becomes void.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Search Warrant In Orange County?
The time required to obtain a search warrant in Orange County depends on the complexity of the investigation, the availability of the reviewing magistrate or judge, and the completeness of the probable cause affidavit submitted by the requesting officer. In straightforward cases where the officer has assembled a complete affidavit and a magistrate is immediately available, a search warrant may be issued within one to two hours of the application. In more complex investigations involving extensive factual backgrounds or novel legal questions, the process may take longer as the judicial officer reviews the materials and may request supplemental information. Magistrates in Orange County are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week, which allows law enforcement to seek search warrants at any hour when exigent circumstances require prompt action. Electronic warrant systems, where implemented, can further reduce processing time by allowing officers to submit affidavits digitally and receive judicial review without requiring an in-person appearance. Once a search warrant is signed, it must be executed within 48 hours under North Carolina law, after which it becomes void and a new warrant must be obtained if the search has not been conducted.