What distinguishes a US magistrate judge from other judges?

A U.S. magistrate judge is distinguished from other judges primarily by their method of appointment and the scope of their authority. They are appointed by district court judges, which provides a unique level of oversight and integration into the federal judicial system. This appointment process helps maintain a balance within the judiciary and allows district judges to delegate specific responsibilities, particularly in managing caseloads.

Magistrate judges typically handle various functions, such as conducting preliminary hearings, collecting evidence, and making recommendations on certain motions and cases. While they play a vital role in the efficiency of the federal court system, their jurisdiction is not as broad as that of Article III judges who are appointed for life. Additionally, magistrate judges do not exclusively hear felony cases nor do they preside over all federal cases without limits; they often handle misdemeanor cases and other proceedings as delegated by district judges. This distinction underscores their specialized role within the federal judiciary.