Discretionary appointment of Guardian ad Litem in termination proceeding

TPR; willful abandonment; dependent juvenile

Termination of parental rights; inadequate findings of wilful abandonment

Right to Present Evidence at Termination Proceeding; Motion to Quash Subpoena for Juvenile; Informal Offer of Proof

12(b)(6) dismissal; Defamation per se; Unfair and deceptive practices

scintilla of evidence standard, submission of issue of contributory negligence to the jury was error

Motion to dismiss, Rule 12(b)(6), heightened pleading standard, collateral estoppel

Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act; In or Affecting Commerce; Misappropriation of Corporate Funds

Appellate review of guilty plea; Jurisdiction; writ of certiorari; Appellate Rules 1,2, and 21; NCGS 15A-1444(e); suspension of appellate rules.

Default Judgment; Standing; Failure to Disclose Claim in Bankruptcy Proceeding; Punitive Damages