What is the difference between a judge and a magistrate?

The main difference between a judge and a magistrate in Texas is their level of authority. Judges are generally appointed or elected officials who preside over court proceedings and have the power to decide cases. They preside over trials, hear appeals, and will typically sentence convicted offenders, although some judges may not have sentencing authority. Magistrates, on the other hand, are state-appointed or -employed officers who are authorized by state law to perform certain duties related to courts, such as presiding over preliminary hearings or issuing warrants. Magistrates do not have the same authority as judges; instead, they are allowed to make decisions related to the day-to-day functioning of the court. Magistrates typically do not sentence convicted offenders, though in some cases their decisions may be reviewed by a judge. Additionally, magistrates may also hear some civil cases related to landlord-tenant disputes and debt collection.

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