What differentiates a 50B from a 50C civil process order?

The distinction between a 50B and a 50C civil process order in North Carolina primarily lies in the nature of the relationship between the plaintiff and the defendant. A 50B order refers to a Domestic Violence Protective Order, which is specifically applicable in situations involving individuals who have a close personal relationship, such as spouses, former spouses, individuals who have lived together, or those who share a child.

In contrast, a 50C order relates to a General Civil No-Contact Order and is intended for situations where the parties do not have a domestic relationship but where the plaintiff seeks protection from stalking or harassment. This highlights the importance of the kind of relationship in determining the type of protective order that is appropriate.

The other choices address aspects that do not primarily differentiate these two types of orders. For instance, while the duration of the orders can vary, it does not fundamentally define the difference between them. Similarly, the type of legal counsel or the severity of allegations, while relevant in practice, do not serve as the core basis for distinguishing these two legal protections. Overall, understanding the relationships defined by these orders is crucial for recognizing their legal applications.