[Read this glossary entry on atharkhan.com](https://atharkhan.com/glossary/temporary-judge/) A **temporary judge**, also called a [[Pro Tem Judge|pro tem judge]], is a qualified [[Attorney|attorney]] designated by a court to hear and decide a matter under the applicable appointment and consent procedures. The role involves exercising judicial authority, not simply giving the parties legal advice. ## In California Family Law Some temporary judges serve through court volunteer programs. The term is not limited to volunteers, however; the rules also address temporary judges requested by the parties. [California Rules of Court, rule 2.816](https://courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index/two/rule2_816) governs stipulation when the court has appointed and assigned an attorney as a temporary judge. It requires notice identifying the temporary judge and explaining the party's right to have the matter heard before a judge, commissioner, or referee. Consent procedures must be evaluated under that rule rather than assumed from the job title. When the parties request a temporary judge for a case, [rule 2.831](https://courts.ca.gov/cms/rules/index/two/rule2_831) addresses the written [[Stipulation|stipulation]], court approval, appointment order, oath and certification. A private agreement naming someone does not by itself complete those steps. The rule also addresses disclosures, disqualification and withdrawal of the stipulation. ## Example Parties in a family-law dispute agree that they would like a particular qualified attorney to hear their case. They still need to follow the applicable designation and consent procedures. Once properly designated, that attorney serves in a judicial role for the matter; the attorney is not acting as either party's lawyer.