When a municipal judge is temporarily unable to act in a general-law city, what powers does the appointee have?

• A. The appointee has all powers and duties of the office and is entitled to compensation
• B. The appointee has only advisory powers
• C. The appointee serves as a clerk
• D. The appointee cannot preside over cases

Answer: (A)

When a municipal judge in a general-law city is temporarily unable to act, the appointee steps in with full judicial authority. This means they have all the powers and duties of the office, including presiding over hearings, issuing rulings, administering oaths, and handling the court’s regular responsibilities. They are also entitled to compensation for their service, ensuring the court continues to function smoothly while the regular judge is unavailable. The arrangement is meant to maintain continuity and the integrity of the judicial process, not to limit the appointee to advisory roles, clerical work, or to prevent them from presiding over cases.