N.C. Gen. Stat. § 8C-1

(a) Proceedings generally. - Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (b) or by statute, these rules apply to all actions and proceedings in the courts of this State. (b) Rules inapplicable. - The rules other than those with respect to privileges do not apply in the following situations: (1) Preliminary Questions of Fact. - The determination of questions of fact preliminary to admissibility of evidence when the issue is to be determined by the court under Rule 104(a). (2) Grand Jury. - Proceedings before grand juries. (3) Miscellaneous Proceedings. - Proceedings for extradition or rendition; first appearance before district court judge or probable cause hearing in criminal cases; sentencing, or granting or revoking probation; issuance of warrants for arrest, criminal summonses, and search warrants; proceedings with respect to release on bail or otherwise. (4) Contempt Proceedings. - Contempt proceedings in which the court is authorized by law to act summarily.