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WILMINGTON – A state appeals court ruled Tuesday that child abuse suspects must have the right to defend themselves before being placed on the Responsible Individual List. The list could affect the suspect's employment and adoption rights.

The case involved a man placed on the list by the New Hanover County Department of Social Services. He was told he could only challenge the decision after he was placed on the list.

The court said the procedure violates the North Carolina Constitution by denying due process.