The court shall be authorized to appoint a special commissioner to assist in the conduct of proceedings under this chapter. In any case in which the court refers a petition to the commissioner, the commissioner shall promptly cause the matter to be investigated and on the basis thereof shall either recommend dismissal of the petition or hold a hearing as provided in this act and make recommendations to the court regarding the disposition of the matter. Such commissioner shall be paid for services rendered on order of the court from county funds in such amount as is determined by the court.
Idaho Code § 20-541