Section 6.01 Cases That May Be Referred

Except as provided by this rule, a judge of a court may refer to a magistrate any suit brought by an inmate, as defined in section 14.001(3), Civil Practice and Remedies Code, or a civilly committed individual, as defined in section 14A.001(1), Civil Practice and Remedies Code, in a district, county, or justice court in which a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs or a similar affidavit or unsworn declaration is filed by the inmate or civilly committed individual. This rule does not apply to an action brought under the Family Code.