Tex.
Gov't Code Section 54.308
Powers
(a)
Except as limited by an order of referral, a magistrate to whom a case is referred may:(1)
conduct hearings;(2)
hear evidence;(3)
compel production of relevant evidence;(4)
rule on admissibility of evidence;(5)
issue summons for the appearance of witnesses;(6)
examine witnesses;(7)
swear witnesses for hearings;(8)
make findings of fact on evidence;(9)
formulate conclusions of law;(10)
rule on a pretrial motion;(11)
recommend the rulings, orders, or judgment to be made in a case;(12)
regulate proceedings in a hearing; and(13)
do any act and take any measure necessary and proper for the efficient performance of the duties required by the order of referral.(b)
A magistrate may not enter a ruling on any issue of law or fact if that ruling could result in dismissal or require dismissal of a pending criminal prosecution, but the magistrate may make findings, conclusions, and recommendations on those issues.(c)
Except as limited by an order of referral, a magistrate who is appointed by a district court judge and to whom a case is referred may accept a plea of guilty or nolo contendere in a misdemeanor case for a county criminal court. The magistrate shall forward any fee or fine collected for the misdemeanor offense to the county clerk.
Source:
Section 54.308 — Powers, https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/GV/htm/GV.54.htm#54.308 (accessed Jun. 5, 2024).
