A special master or master in chancery is an individual appointed by the court to assist with some part of a lawsuit, such as discovery—depositions, written questions, and production of documents—and to make recommendations to the judge on how to resolve related disputes. Courts have held that discovery questions that require extensive examination of highly technical and complex documents by a person having both a technical and a legal background may constitute an exceptional condition sufficient to justify the appointment of a master to supervise such discovery.

In Minnesota, a special master, sometimes referred to as a master in chancery, is an individual appointed by the court to assist in complex aspects of a lawsuit, particularly in the discovery process. This role is governed by Rule 53 of the Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure, which allows for the appointment of a special master by the court under certain circumstances. The appointment is typically justified when a case involves extensive examination of highly technical and complex documents that require expertise beyond the legal knowledge of the court. A special master in Minnesota may be tasked with overseeing depositions, managing the exchange of written questions and answers, and handling the production of documents. They also make recommendations to the judge on how to resolve disputes related to these matters. The use of a special master is considered an exceptional measure, reserved for cases where their technical and legal expertise can significantly aid in the resolution of complex issues within the litigation.