In non-jury trials, a Court accepts the findings of fact of the master unless clearly erroneous. In jury trials, a master's findings are admissible as evidence. The parties may also stipulate that a master's finding be deemed final. There can be several advantages to using a special master. The order of reference to a master can be carefully tailored to fit a particular case need.
Masters can reduce dramatically the time to resolve pretrial disputes.
The master's immediate availability and thorough familiarity with the details of the case can discourage litigants from taking disruptive and costly positions. The master can bring expertise in a specialized field to the case that a generalist judge may not have. In addition, parties retain the right to have the Court review decisions made by the master. The use of a master is generally appropriate in matters where the amount in controversy is substantial and technical issues are involved. Masters may be used to conduct lengthy settlement negotiations for which a Judge or Magistrate Judge may not have time.