(a) The governing body may appoint one or more magistrates in addition to magistrates provided under Article 2A.151, Code of Criminal Procedure.
(b) A magistrate does not have to possess all the qualifications necessary to be a municipal court of record judge.
(c) A magistrate may not preside over the court or hear contested cases.
(d) A magistrate may:
(1) conduct an arraignment;
(2) hold an indigency hearing;
(3) accept a plea;
(4) sign a judgment;
(5) set the amount of a bond; and
(6) perform other functions under Article 15.17, Code of Criminal Procedure.