- The magistrate judge determines if there was a crime committed and if there is probable cause (a reasonable ground for supposing that a charge is well-founded) that the suspect was involved with the crime.
- The magistrate judge also decides on bail and pretrial release conditions for the suspect.
- The magistrate judge may preside over preliminary hearings to determine if there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial.
- The magistrate judge may also handle certain pretrial motions and issues, such as search warrants or arrest warrants.
- In some cases, the magistrate judge may have the authority to conduct plea hearings and accept guilty pleas from defendants.
- The magistrate judge plays a crucial role in the initial stages of a criminal case, ensuring that the legal process is followed correctly and fairly for all parties involved.