(a) To refer one or more cases to an associate judge, a judge must issue a written order of referral that specifies the associate judge's duties.
(b) An order of referral may:
(1) limit the powers of the associate judge and direct the associate judge to report only on specific issues, do particular acts, or receive and report on evidence only;
(2) set the time and place for the hearing;
(3) prescribe a closing date for the hearing;
(4) provide a date for filing the associate judge's findings;
(5) designate proceedings for more than one case over which the associate judge shall preside;
(6) direct the associate judge to call the court's docket; and
(7) set forth general powers and limitations or authority of the associate judge applicable to any case referred.