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Magistrates and Support Hearing Officers are quasi-judicial officers, who conduct formal court hearings, take testimony and evaluate evidence. At the end of the hearing, he or she prepares a written report which contains recommendations as to what action the judge should take in the case. Either party may file a written exception to the report within 10 days. If no exceptions are filed, the court typically enters an order approving the recommendations. The Chief Judge appoints General Magistrates, pursuant to Florida Family Rules of Procedures to hear and make recommendations on post-judgment family law matters and specific prejudgment temporary relief family law matters. See Administrative Order Hearing Officers are appointed for proceedings related under Title IV-D of the Social Security Act involving the establishment, modification and enforcement of support, foreign orders, determinations of arrears, including those of assistance debt owed to the state. The general magistrates and hearing officers serve under the direction of the administrative judge of the Family Law Division. The Chief Judge also appoints a special master to hear and consider Baker Act and Marchman Act proceedings. These proceedings are related to involuntary placement treatment based on a severe mental, emotional or behavioral disorder. The special master serves under the direction of the administrative judge of the Guardianship, Mental Health, Probate & Trust division. |
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