What is a Master Commissioner

This is the most common question I get as I meet Delaware County voters. Just like a judge, I wear a black robe, I preside over court where I hear cases, I make legal rulings, and I issue legal opinions. Most litigants address me in court as “Judge” (probably because the title of “Master Commissioner” is a mouthful). 

So, you may ask yourself why my official title is that of “Master Commissioner” instead of Judge? There are really two differences. First, as Master Commissioner I am appointed by the 5 elected Delaware County Judges to hear cases on their behalf. The second difference is that when I issue a ruling or an opinion in a case, that decision is also approved by the sitting Judge.

If you are interested in learning about my specific judicial responsibilities, please feel free to visit the Delaware County Court’s “Meet the Judges” web page: https://delawarecocourts.com/meet-the-judges/