Which of the following is an associate judge appointment under Chapter 54A, Government Code, included among magistrates?

• A. an associate judge appointed by a judge of a statutory probate court under Chapter 54A, Government Code
• B. a justice of the peace
• C. a district court clerk
• D. a school principal

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is who qualifies as a magistrate under Chapter 54A of the Government Code. Chapter 54A allows a judge of a statutory probate court to appoint an associate judge to assist with probate matters, and that associate judge is included among magistrates. So the scenario described—an associate judge appointed by a judge of a statutory probate court under Chapter 54A—fits the category of magistrates exactly.

A justice of the peace is a separate judicial office with its own authority, not specifically an associate judge appointed under 54A. A district court clerk is court staff, not a magistrate. A school principal has no role in the judiciary. Thus, the associate judge appointment described under Chapter 54A is the correct fit.