What is a Friend of the Court Referee and what can they do?
A Referee is an Attorney who hears motions, holds hearings, examines witnesses, and makes recommendations to the Court. A Referee can either be the Director of the Friend of the Court or an Attorney designated by the Chief Circuit Judge. The Family Court Bench may direct a Referee to hear any domestic relations actions, except an increase or decrease in spousal support (alimony). A Referee hearing is different then a Court hearing. The findings of a Referee are Recommendations to the Court, and are not final. However, a Referee’s Recommendation may become a court order if neither party files objections. Parties may stipulate to a Binding Referee Hearing or arbitration. State Law requires that any written report or recommendation prepared by a Referee be given to the parties and their attorneys before the Judge takes action on the Recommendation. If a party disagrees with a Referee’s Recommendation after the Evidentiary Hearing, she/he has the right to a de novo (a new) hearing before t
