Masters

U.S Code last checked for updates: Jan 30, 2025

Rule 48.

Masters

(a)

Appointment; Powers.

A court of appeals may appoint a special master to hold hearings, if necessary, and to recommend factual findings and disposition in matters ancillary to proceedings in the court. Unless the order referring a matter to a master specifies or limits the master’s powers, those powers include, but are not limited to, the following:

(1)

regulating all aspects of a hearing;

(2)

taking all appropriate action for the efficient performance of the master’s duties under the order;

(3)

requiring the production of evidence on all matters embraced in the reference; and

(4)

administering oaths and examining witnesses and parties.

(b)

Compensation.

If the master is not a judge or court employee, the court must determine the master’s compensation and whether the cost is to be charged to any party.

(As amended Apr. 29, 1994, eff. Dec. 1, 1994; Apr. 24, 1998, eff. Dec. 1, 1998.)