Sometimes, a district judge will refer the case to the Magistrate Judge for "dispositive motions," which means motions such as motions to dismiss and motions for summary judgment. The Magistrate Judge will review the motion and issue a Report and Recommendation to the District Judge to advise the District Judge what should happen with the motion. The parties then have the opportunity to oppose in writing the U.S. Magistrate Judge’s Report and Recommendation. After the district judge considers the parties’ opposition papers and the U.S. Magistrate Judge’s Report and Recommendation, the district judge will issue a decision. This decision is the final decision on the matter at the district court. A party who disagrees with the district judge’s decision may appeal the decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.
