What are the inherent powers of magistrate judges?
A magistrate judge may handle some preliminary and post-judgment matters in civil cases under DUCivR 72-2(a) and DUCrimR 57-15. These matters, such as civil case scheduling conferences and supplemental and collection proceedings and criminal case initial appearances and detention hearings, do not require a reference. 28 U.S.C. ยง 636 (a) provides that Magistrate Judges have limited inherent powers including issuance of orders of release or detention of persons pending trial, entry of sentence for a petty offense or for a class A misdemeanor in a case in which the parties have consented; administration of oaths and affirmations, and taking acknowledgements, affidavits, and depositions.
