Tex.
Gov't Code Section 54.878
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;(13)
accept a plea of guilty for a misdemeanor or felony or a plea of true from a defendant or juvenile, regardless of the classification of the offense charged or the conduct alleged; and(14)
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.
Source:
Section 54.878 — Powers, https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/GV/htm/GV.54.htm#54.878 (accessed Jun. 5, 2024).
