Have you ever heard of a “special master” in the context of legal proceedings and wondered what one does? A special master is an experienced legal professional, usually a lawyer, who is appointed by a court in specific cases to hear and decide important aspects of a case. They are sometimes referred to as a “court-appointed master” or a “judicial referee.”
What Are Special Masters Used For?
In general, special masters are authorized to act in much the same capacity as a judge and can make rulings in a case. However, they are generally appointed for a specific purpose, either due to a time-restricted hearing or a specialized legal field. In certain cases, the court may appoint a special master who has expertise in a given area in order to review evidence and advise on the subject matter before making a recommendation. Special masters may also be used when the court needs to review complex facts or resolve a complicated legal issue without the need for a full trial.
Common Situations Where Special Masters Are Appointed
Special masters are often appointed in cases involving complex legal questions or special circumstances, such as those in which medical evidence or specialized knowledge is needed. Special masters may also be appointed in cases involving large amounts of evidence or to handle logistically complex proceedings, such as those involving class action lawsuits. They may also be appointed to enforce compliance with court orders and to make sure the parties are abiding by the terms of the settlement.
Examples of Special Masters in Modern Legal Disputes
The most notable recent example of a special master in a legal dispute was former FBI Director Louis Freeh, who was tasked by a federal court in 2018 to investigate the estate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a class action lawsuit in 2020, former professional basketball players were appointed a special master to review their claims of medical negligence against the National Basketball Association. A special master was also appointed in the disputed 2020 presidential election to review potentially inaccurate votes for President Donald Trump.
Understanding the Role of a Special Master
In summary, special masters provide an invaluable service to the court by acting as an intermediary with special legal knowledge and investigative skills. Whether for a class action lawsuit, a complex medical matter, or an election dispute, special masters help ensure legal accuracy and fairness are upheld. If you’re ever in a situation requiring the expertise of a special master, you can rest assured that the law is in the hands of a qualified professional.