Also known as: special masters · special-master · court master · appointed master
Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
A court-appointed officer who assists a judge by performing designated tasks such as conducting hearings, making findings of fact, or managing aspects of complex litigation. The appointment allows the court to delegate specialized or time-intensive functions while retaining ultimate decision-making authority. Appointments often arise in original jurisdiction cases, class actions, or remedial proceedings where detailed fact development is required.
Rosa donates heavily to Judge Patel's campaign and urges her banking clients to contribute as well, stating that the support will position her for receiver and special master roles in upcoming credit union cases. After Patel takes the bench, Rosa applies for and receives those appointments. The contributions were made specifically to obtain judicial appointments as a special master.
In a school desegregation suit, the Supreme Court appoints a special master to gather evidence on local conditions and recommend the terms of a remedial decree. The master holds hearings and submits proposed findings to the Court. The Court then accepts or modifies those recommendations before entering its final order.
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In a nationwide employment discrimination class action, the district court refers a sample of individual damage claims to a special master for individualized valuation. The master reviews testimony and documents for each sampled claimant and reports findings. The court uses those findings to extrapolate damages for the remaining class members.
A challenge to an independent agency's structure reaches the Supreme Court. The opinion notes that agency commissioners perform quasi-judicial tasks similar to those of a special master when they recommend dispositions in contested matters. The comparison illustrates the limited independence permitted for such officers.
During an impeachment trial, the Senate appoints a special master to receive testimony and compile a factual record for the senators to review. The master conducts hearings and submits a report. Senators then vote on the articles after considering the master's findings.
In a federal probate dispute, the district court appoints a special master to oversee distribution of estate assets and resolve competing claims among heirs. The master conducts an accounting and proposes an allocation. The court adopts the proposal after reviewing objections from the parties.
A court may appoint a special master to assist with complex or time-consuming tasks such as fact-finding or damage calculations. Rule 53 permits appointment when the issues are exceptional or when the parties consent. The master reports findings to the court, which retains final authority.
Supporting sources
No. Lawyers may contribute to judicial campaigns as part of ordinary political participation. The rule bars contributions only when made for the purpose of obtaining or being considered for the appointment. Purpose is assessed by examining timing, statements, and surrounding circumstances.
Supporting sources
In cases within the Supreme Court's original jurisdiction, the Court often appoints a special master to develop the factual record through hearings and evidence. The master submits proposed findings and recommendations. The Court reviews exceptions and issues the final decision.
No. A special master performs delegated tasks and submits recommendations. The appointing court always retains authority to accept, modify, or reject the master's report. The master functions only as an adjunct to the court.
…detailed decrees in these cases;" "(b) if so, what specific issues should the decrees reach;" "(c) should this Court appoint a special master to hear evidence with a view to recommending specific terms for such decrees;" "(d) should this Court remand to the courts of first instance with directions to frame decrees in these cases…