The following is a summary, but not comprehensive description of the role of the Magistrate Judge in criminal proceedings:

The Magistrate Judge conducts initial appearances and detention hearings in all newly filed criminal matters, and arraignments when indictments are filed.
At the initial appearance and arraignment hearings, the defendant will be advised of the charges and potential penalties. Moreover, at the arraignment hearing, the defendant will enter a formal plea to the charges, either guilty or not guilty. At this early stage, nearly every defendant enters a plea of not guilty.

The Magistrate Judge may also conduct hearings on a change of plea from not guilty to guilty when the matter has been referred by the District Court Judge for this purpose.

Trials in felony matters will be before the United States District Court Judge, but misdemeanor trials may be conducted by the Magistrate Judge with the consent of the defendant.

At every court appearance, the criminal defendant has a right to remain silent and the right to counsel.  Every criminal defendant may retain an attorney of their choosing, but if a defendant lacks funds for a retained attorney, and the court determines the defendant is indigent, the Magistrate Judge will appoint an attorney pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act.

The court strongly encourages all counsel, especially newly appointed counsel, to make every effort to meet with their client in person as soon as possible after filing an appearance, and before the initial appearance hearing, if possible.

CJA-23 Financial Affidavit Form