The United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida announced on Mar. 18 that it has established a merit selection panel to consider the reappointment of United States Magistrate Judge Nicholas P. Mizell, whose current term expires on July 7, 2027.
The court is seeking public input as part of the process required by law before reappointing a magistrate judge to another eight-year term in Fort Myers, Florida. This process allows members of the community and legal professionals to provide feedback regarding Judge Mizell’s service and qualifications.
Magistrate judges in the federal system have several key responsibilities under 28 U.S.C. § 636. These include conducting most preliminary proceedings in criminal cases, presiding over misdemeanor trials, handling pretrial matters and evidentiary hearings delegated by district judges, and trying civil cases with the consent of all parties involved.
Individuals interested in submitting comments about Judge Mizell’s prospective reappointment must do so no later than April 30, 2026. Comments can be sent by mail to Elizabeth M. Warren, Clerk of Court at the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida or by email to Submissions@flmd.uscourts.gov.
This public notice is part of standard procedures designed to ensure transparency and accountability in judicial appointments within the federal court system.
