NC GS § 4-1 provides: All such parts of the common law as were heretofore in force and use within this State, or so much of the common law as is not destructive of, or repugnant to, or inconsistent with, the freedom and independence of this State and the form of government therein established, and which has not been otherwise provided for in whole or in part, not abrogated, repealed, or become obsolete, are hereby declared to be in full force within this State.

In re Mohlman, 216 SE 2d 147 - NC: Court of Appeals 1975 states:
At common law, then, a person may lawfully change his name at will and assume a new name so long as it is not for a fraudulent, or illegal purpose. He may enter a contract or other obligation under any name he chooses to assume. "The law is chiefly concerned with the identity of the individual, and when that is ascertained and clearly established, the act will be binding on him and on others." 57 Am.Jur.2d, Name, § 22, pp. 289, 290. Of course, the common law of England is in force in this State to the extent that it has not been abrogated or repealed by statute and to the extent that it is not repugnant to or destructive of our form of government. McMichael v. Proctor, 243 N.C. 479, 91 S.E.2d 231 (1955).

Affidavit