The bill amends Section 8-10-3.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 8-10, which pertains to the Family Court, by establishing a formal process for the appointment of magistrates. It requires that the chief judge of the family court appoint magistrates in accordance with the judicial selection and nomination process set forth in chapter 16.1 of title 8, with the advice and consent of the senate. The bill clarifies the powers and duties of magistrates, allowing them to assist the court in various matters, including enforcement of child support, custody determinations, and hearings related to divorce and adoption.

The bill also stipulates that magistrates will serve a term of ten years and may be reappointed, subject to the same advice and consent process. It empowers magistrates to regulate proceedings, issue subpoenas, adjudicate contempt, and hear income withholding applications, among other responsibilities. Additionally, the bill ensures that parties aggrieved by a magistrate's order can seek review by a justice of the family court, with the possibility of appealing final orders to the supreme court. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2939: 8-10-3.1