I live in Southern California, Orange County.
I am planning on fighting my speeding ticket and went to court to see how the system work.
I noticed that there was a sign that said that the traffic court was run by a Commisioner rather than a judge and that if I do not like that i should object.
I understand the difference between a Commisioner and a Judge for what concern their title and background, however:

HOW DOES THAT AFFECT THE TRIAL??

Can I appeal a sentence handed by a Commissioner?
Can I ask for dismissal if the persecutor is not there? or since the court is run by a commisioner, the persecutor doesn't have to be there?
What happens if I object?
Would it be any different if the court was run by a Judge?

Thanks for the assistance.