I understand how the courts can take the position they're taking - what with all the gay "marriage" and all. However, the mother should be on the hook for paying this man back and she should be thrown in jail. After she gets out, if she still hasn't paid him back, her check should be garnished. She has robbed this man for many years.
It's not about the "courts"- it is the strict interpretation of the particular law or rule in question. The NC legislature is free to abolish the time limitations, or write a paternity law that allows fathers to challenge paternity at any time.