The principal function of the Magistrate is to provide an independent unbiased review of complaints brought to the office by Police Officers, Sheriffs, Deputies, and Citizens. Magistrates are not police officers nor are they in any way connected with law enforcement. Instead Magistrates are Judicial Officers who serve as a buffer between law enforcement and society.

Magistrates have the power to perform such duties issuing:

• Search Warrants
• Subpoenas
• Arrest Warrants
• Summonses
• Emergency Custody Orders
• Temporary Mental Detention Orders
• Medical Emergency Custody
• Temporary Detention Orders
• Emergency Protective Orders and
• Set Bail or Commit to Jail

As a general rule, Magistrates may exercise their authority within the borders of their Judicial District.