In North Carolina, it is entirely in the judge’s discretion as to whether the testimony of a child will be heard. If a judge determines that a child is of appropriate age and maturity to provide the court with helpful information, the court may order the child to testify.  However, the judge has the ability to require the testimony to be in private in his or her chambers (an in camera examination) or the judge may require the attorneys for the parties to be present during the questioning as well.  Typically, judges do not want to traumatize a young child and will do everything possible to prevent the child from having to testify in any capacity.  However, if the child grows older and reaches the age of majority (18), the court may require him or her to testify in an open courtroom.  These issues should be discussed with your attorney as you prepare for court and your concerns should be addressed completely with your attorney.