16
Years on the Bench
30
Years of
Legal Experience
Serving New Hanover & Pender Counties
A steady hand on the bench.
Chad Hogston grew up in the mountains of Virginia, where hard work, discipline, and self-sufficiency were part of everyday life. He was the first in his family to attend college and went on to build a legal career spanning three decades.
After beginning his practice in 1996, Chad developed experience across wide range of cases in New Hanover and Pender Counties. That foundation prepared him to serve with perspective, balance, and a deep understanding that every case involves real people and real consequences.
For Chad, serving as a district court judge is both a responsibility and a privilege. He believes justice requires not just knowledge of the law, but humility, patience, and respect for every person who comes before the court.
Core Values
Experience
16 years on the bench and 30 years of legal experience provide the judgment and perspective required to serve effectively.
Fairness
Every person deserves to be heard, treated with respect, and given fair consideration under the law.
Integrity
Public trust is everything. The judiciary must be guided by humility, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
Sixteen years on the bench. Thirty years in the law.
District court requires the ability to make decisions across a wide range of issues, including criminal matters, family court, domestic violence, civil disputes, child support, and mental health commitments.
Chad Hogston brings the experience and steady judgment this role demands.
● 16 years serving on the bench
● 30 years of legal experience
● General practice background across multiple areas of law
● Experience in New Hanover and Pender Counties
● Known for calm, professional courtroom leadership
Why Chad?
“I want people to feel like they were heard, that they stated their position, and that they were given fair consideration.”
Judge Hogston believes every person who enters the courtroom deserves respect and a fair opportunity to be heard. His approach is calm, steady, and grounded in experience.