Hon. Christopher Welch

Communication: Clearly portrayed reasoning for ruling

Communication: I have repeatedly observed deadlines and clauses in written orders that were not communicated in court. Always check your order! Fairness & Impartiality: I have observed Judge Welch over the course of a few lengthy custody disputes. I have noted him to be extremely variable, which isn't exactly a desirable trait in family court. Sometimes he will be very fair and balanced, and other times he wakes up and chooses chaos, throwing a ruling completely out of left field. I have not observed him to have a specific leaning for mothers or fathers, but the one consistent trait I've noted is a great deal of leniency for the parent that is not prioritizing the child, often placing an undue amount of responsibility on the primary parent to facilitate access for the questionable parent at all costs, and at the expense of the child's stability. (Again, this after observing multiple cases, not my own.)

Criminal and family court Legal Knowledge: I have been in a plethora of cases where he was an attorney and later on, a judge. He is one of the most knowledgeable people I’ve ever seen, and he stays current as the laws change/update. Fairness & Impartiality: Extremely fair, showing zero preference for one side or the other. Judicial Temperament: I have seen a very high level of professionalism, a multitude of kindness, and more patience than the average person. Communication: I appreciate the way he’s explained his decisions and rulings, with knowledge and an ability to ensure all parties understand.

Legal Knowledge: One of the worst judges in the state. He has personal biased against service members and men. I personally seen him tell a father, that is a service member, trying to get a DVPO against his daughter's stepfather that raped her, had proof and won't allow it and dismissed it. I have been in a 2 year battle to get custody of my son when his mother has been mentally and emotionally abusive and he says that's not a real thing. He is a disgrace to the judicial system. He was only a appointed judge, not a elected judge like most in Onslow County. he has a 15% of giving fathers custody when the state is roughly 25%, well below the margins.