N.C. Gen. Stat. § 36C-4-401

A trust may be created by any of the following methods:

(1) Transfer of property by a settlor to a person as trustee during the settlor's lifetime or by will or other disposition taking effect upon the settlor's death including either of the following: The devise to the trustee of the trust as provided in G.S. 31-47.

(2) The designation of the trust as beneficiary of life insurance or other death benefits as provided in G.S. 36C-4-401.1.

(3) Declaration by the owner of property that the owner holds identifiable property as trustee unless the transfer of title of that property is otherwise required by law.

(4) Exercise of a power of appointment in favor of a trustee.

(5) A court by judgment, order, or decree, including the establishment of a trust pursuant to section 1396p(d)(4) of Title 42 of the United States Code.