Magistrate Job Description:

Adjudicates civil cases in which damages do not exceed prescribed maximum established by state law, and minor misdemeanor cases not involving penitentiary sentences or fines in excess of maximum amount allowed to be levied under state law. Conducts preliminary hearings in felony cases to determine whether there is reasonable and probable cause to hold defendant for further proceedings or trial by superior court. May perform wedding ceremonies. May perform duties at night and be designated Night-Court Magistrate (government ser.). May adjudicate cases involving motor vehicle laws and be designated Traffic-Court Magistrate (government ser.).