In 1997, the North Carolina General Assembly passed legislation to establish pilot programs for worthless checks in several counties.  By 1999, it had become apparent that these programs were very successful and popular in those counties.  In subsequent years, this program was extended to ten additional counties.

This program is now available in Beaufort and Martin Counties with the expectation of being available in Hyde, Tyrrell and Washington Counties before November 2008.  The Worthless Check Program is designed to allow the victim of a worthless check, to collect the restitution to which they are entitled in a more efficacious manner.  It is also designed to afford the check passer the opportunity to avoid criminal prosecution by paying the merchant/victim full reimbursement and a fee of sixty dollars ($60.00).  All monies are collected by the Clerk’s office and restitution is mailed directly to the merchant/victim.

If you have any questions or need additional information regarding the worthless check program, please contact our office.