Resolution of Dispositive Motions by Magistrate Judge

Consent to Magistrate Judge. With the approval of the district judge to whom the case (a) is assigned, the parties to a dispositive motion may consent to the final resolution and entry of judgment on the dispositive motion by a magistrate judge. Final Rulings by Magistrate Judge. If all parties consent to a final ruling on the motion (b) by a magistrate judge and one is available to hear the motion, the motion will be heard by a magistrate judge pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(c)(1).

Unless the parties specify otherwise in their consent to the exercise of jurisdiction by the magistrate judge, any appeal shall be to the court of appeals pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(c)(3). Consent to a final ruling on a dispositive motion by a magistrate judge does not waive any party's right to have other matters heard by a district judge. 17