An order of reference to the master commissioner or local rules of court may specify or limit the master commissioner's powers, and may direct him or her to report only upon particular issues, or to perform particular acts, or to receive and report evidence only. The order of reference may fix the time and place for beginning and closing the acts or issues referenced, and for the filing of the master commissioner's report. The master commissioner shall exercise the power to regulate all proceedings before him or her and to take all measures necessary for the efficient performance of his or her duties, subject to the specifications and limitations stated in the order of reference or local rules of court. The master commissioner may require the production of evidence upon matters included in the order of reference, such as the production of all books, papers, vouchers, documents, and writings. The master commissioner may rule upon the admissibility of evidence, unless otherwise directed by the order of reference, and has the authority to put witnesses and parties under oath and examine same. The master commissioner shall make a record of the evidence offered and excluded in the same manner and subject to the same limitations as may be provided in applicable Rules of Civil Procedure and/or Rules of Evidence for a court sitting without a jury.
Ky. Admin. P. Ct. Justice. 3