CALIFORNIA FAMILY LAW
...Procedure Before Trial/Hearing
......Judicial Officers/Referees/Masters
.........Referees/Special Masters
............Case Authority
4 Cards On This Topic:
  • Nonconsensual reference to special master of "any and all issues" re custody was overbroad and unauthorized by statute.
  • Special Master acted properly and within his authority in making ordered credibility assessment of parties.
  • Court may not delegate judicial authority to special master to determine factual issues relating to spousal support, absent stipulation.
  • Dissolution trial before referee, in absence of consent of parties, is error.