A bill to enlarge the trial jurisdiction of U.S. magistrates in misdemeanor cases, to make technical and administrative amendments in the Federal Magistrates Act, and for other purposes.

Includes misdemeanors with fines of up to $5,000 within the definition of minor offenses subject to trial jurisdiction of United States magistrates.

States that prior to trial, or prior to the acceptance of a plea of guilty, or plea of nolo contendere, the magistrate may, in any case within his jurisdiction, and with the consent of the United States and the defendant, place the defendant on probation for a period not exceeding eighteen months, subject to such terms and conditions as the magistrate may then, or from time to time, prescribe. Provides that upon successful completion of probation, the defendant shall be discharged and the proceedings against him shall be dismissed.

Removes the commission of petty offenses from the definition of juvenile delinquency.

Provides that full-time and part-time referees may, with approval of the United States Judicial Conference, serve as United States Magistrates.