Court Commissioner Pro Tem (On-Call) - Department of Child Support Services

Definition 
Under the authority of the Judges of the Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento and at the direction of the Presiding Judge, Court Commissioners perform various judicial functions as prescribed by law or conferred by the Court.  The power and authority of Court Commissioners is specified by statute.  Court Commissioners have the same jurisdiction and exercise the same powers and duties as the Judges of the Court with respect to infractions and small claims actions, and in other matters pursuant to stipulation of the parties.

Distinguishing Characteristics
Court Commissioners perform judicial functions of the Court, assisting the Court in disposing of business connected with the administration of justice, including acting as a temporary judge in certain types of cases.  It is distinguished from the position of Judge in that it is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the Judges of the Court and acts only as a temporary judge, presiding over cases as directed by the Presiding Judge, at the stipulation of the parties.