Types of Appointments

Judicial adjuncts can take on several types of roles. Often—but not exclusively—these roles arise in multi-district litigation (MDL) cases, class actions, or other complex or multi-party litigation. Judicial adjuncts appointed pursuant to Rule 53 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure are referred to as “masters.” Other adjuncts can have titles that reflect the nature of their role, such as monitor, mediator, facilitator, or arbitrator. Sometimes one adjunct will play multiple roles throughout the lifetime of a complex case. Below is a list of specialties representative of our membership.

ACAM provides information for those interested in using masters or learning about the role of mastering:

• Roles of Masters describes the various roles masters play in litigation.
• Advantages of Masters discusses how masters can unburden the courts and make litigation more efficient.
• Appointing Masters Handbook is a manual primarily intended to assist judges and their clerks in appointing and using masters. Attorneys involved in cases in which a master is appointed will also find this handbook useful.
• Experienced Masters lists the fellows of the Academy. All fellows are required to have served as a master.