Storch is sworn in as a Magistrate in Durham County
Tuesday, November 17, 2009. It was a nondescript ceremony conducted in the Chief District Court Judge’s chambers. Left hand on the bible, right hand raised, and an affirmation of the Magistrate’s Oath of Office. But it was a monumental day in the life of this attorney as it was an opportunity to serve the public and the criminal justice system in Durham County in a new capacity as an impartial officer of the court.
What exactly does a Magistrate do? The Magistrate is a judicial official of the District Court Division. In criminal cases, magistrates issue search warrants, arrest warrants, and conduct initial appearances. They also determine conditions of pretrial release and set initial bond amounts when appropriate.
In civil cases, they preside over small claims court and they also perform civil marriage ceremonies.
For more information about the duties and responsibilities of a Magistrate, click here:
Subscribe to blog feed.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
About the Author: Steven Storch is a former Assistant District Attorney in Durham County, North Carolina and is currently serving the citizens of Durham County as a Magistrate. Dr. Storch is
the sole designer, author, and webmaster of this web site. Any and all credit or blame for its design and content should be attributed to him.