A referee is a judicial officer appointed by the court and derives his authority solely form the order of appointment.
A referee’s authority is restricted by the order of reference that may enlarge or limit his functions, powers and duties.
A referee is empowered to make finding on the whole issue that must stand as the findings of the court and upon
which the court renders the judgment.
CCP 639 provides that the court may, upon the application of either party, or on its own motion, direct a reference
for the purpose of:
a. Performing an accounting. (§639(a), (b))
b. Hearing and determining discovery motions or disputes. (§639(e)) |
