Missouri Law Matters

How to Become a Judge in Missouri: Judge Jalilah Otto’s Path to the Bench

What does it take to become a judge in Missouri? In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, Judge Jalilah Otto of the 16th Judicial Circuit in Jackson County shares her path to the bench, the work judges do each day, and how Missouri’s nonpartisan court plan shapes judicial selection in Kansas City and beyond.
Judge Otto talks about growing up in Kansas City, discovering the law almost by accident, and building a career as a prosecutor at the state and federal levels before becoming an associate circuit judge, then a circuit judge. She also explains how Missouri circuit courts work, why civic education matters, and what people should know before stepping into a courtroom.
This conversation is designed for Missourians searching for:• how to become a judge in Missouri• Missouri nonpartisan court plan• Missouri circuit courts explained• Jackson County Court and Kansas City legal system• what judges do in Missouri courts• legal and judicial career paths
About Missouri Law MattersMissouri Law Matters is a public education initiative of the Supreme Court of Missouri that helps increase access and understanding of how our courts work.
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Missouri Family & Landlord-Tenant Court: What to Expect | Judge Denise Childress

What really happens inside Missouri’s Associate Circuit Courts?Judge Denise Childress of St. Charles County joins host Judge Matt Hamner to share what everyday justice looks like - from orders of protection and child support to family law and landlord-tenant cases.She talks about handling hundreds of cases a week, working with people who represent themselves, and why keeping courts open and accessible matters to every Missourian. Judge Childress also reflects on her journey from public defender to the bench, the mentors who guided her, and how teaching and fairness shape her approach to the law.Topics include:– What to expect in Missouri’s Associate Circuit Court– Orders of protection and family law cases– Child support, small claims, and landlord-tenant disputes– The role of mentorship and education in the judiciary– Why open courts build public trustAbout Missouri Law MattersA podcast from the Supreme Court of Missouri, sharing conversations with judges and court professionals about how the law works in real life - and how Missouri’s courts serve the public every day.

From Judge to Attorney: Joseph Goff on Civic Education and Trust in Missouri’s Legal System

In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, Judge Matt Hamner speaks with Joseph Goff, Jr, private practice attorney and former judge, about his unique journey through Missouri’s legal system — from prosecutor to judge to advocate for civic education.Together, they explore how civic education builds public trust, why judges should connect with their communities, and how young lawyers can help demystify the court system through outreach and engagement.👉 Key Topics:Missouri law and the judicial systemCivic education and community engagementLegal careers and professional developmentTrust and transparency in courtsThe role of judges and lawyers in public education📍 Chapters00:00 Personal Experiences in the Legal Field01:43 The Influence of Sports on Legal Careers13:00 Exploring the 24th Circuit: Counties and Culture14:28 Judicial Responsibilities: A Day in the Life of a Judge16:53 Transitioning to the Bench: Expectations vs. Reality19:53 Civic Education: The Role of Judges in Community Engagement25:11 Civic Education Committee: Goals and Initiatives32:59 The Importance of Civic Education for Young Lawyers37:06 From Judge to Lawyer: Navigating Career Transitions💬 “Civic education is incredibly important. We only have the trust of the people.” — Joseph GoffFollow the Supreme Court of Missouri to learn more about Your Missouri Courts# missouri supreme court

Legal Deserts in Missouri: Access to Justice, Rural Law & Attorney Recruitment Challenges

In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, Judge Matt Hamner sits down with Judge Corey Moon to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing rural Missouri: legal deserts.What happens when there are fewer than one lawyer for every 1,000 people? Many rural counties in Missouri have only a judge and a prosecutor - leaving residents without meaningful access to legal help.Together, Judge Hamner and Judge Moon explore:Why rural areas struggle to recruit and retain attorneysHow community service and engagement impact legal accessIncentive programs from other states, like South DakotaThe growing role of technology in law and virtual hearingsWhy access to justice matters for every MissourianThis conversation highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions and ongoing efforts by Missouri courts and the Missouri Bar to address gaps in access to justice.🔗 Watch more Missouri Law Matters episodes here: https://bit.ly/4kSekXO

Ask a Judge: Missouri’s Most-Asked Court Questions Answered

Ever had a question you wish you could ask a judge? In this special Ask a Judge episode of Missouri Law Matters, Judge Matt Hamner answers Missouri’s most-asked court questions.From how to become a judge to what really happens in the courtroom, Judge Hamner offers clear, practical insights on the legal process. He shares what law school is like, how the bar exam works, why ethics are essential, and what to expect if you have a case in court.Whether you’re a student, a lawyer, or just curious about Missouri’s justice system, this episode gives you a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how our courts work.TakeawaysTo become a judge, one must first be a lawyer.Judges must adhere to strict ethical guidelines.It's important to communicate concerns with your attorney.The court's decisions are reflected in written opinions.Public perception of court decisions can be misleading.Law school requires significant dedication and effort.Bar exam preparation is crucial for success.Maintaining personal interests is important during law school.Distractions are common during the bar exam.Understanding courtroom procedures can alleviate anxiety.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setup00:21 Understanding Judicial Ethics and Impartiality03:20 Judicial Decision-Making and Public Perception12:09 Courtroom Realities vs. Media Portrayals15:11 The Art of Legal Strategy and Preparation15:24 The Art of Cross-Examination15:51 Understanding Elected Judges in Missouri17:37 Balancing Law and Public Opinion19:44 The Role of Judicial Decisions19:57 Understanding Appellate Courts20:11 The Role of Appellate Courts21:23 Mentorship in Legal Careers25:06 Advice for Aspiring Judges28:30 Navigating Attorney-Client Relationships39:35 Preparing for Court Appearances47:59 Surviving and Thriving in Law SchoolKeywordsMissouri judicial system, becoming a judge, judicial ethics, public questions, attorney-client relationships, guardians ad litem, courtroom drama, court preparation, law school tips, bar exam preparation

Inside the Supreme Court of Missouri: Betsy Ledgerwood on Public Service, Technology & Justice

What does it take to run Missouri’s highest court behind the scenes?In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, Judge Matt Hamner sits down with Betsy Ledgerwood, Clerk of the Supreme Court of Missouri, to explore her journey from small-town Missouri to the center of statewide judicial administration.They cover:The evolving role of the court clerkWhy transparency and technology matter in today’s judiciaryThe rising number of pro se litigantsHow mentorship shapes legal careersAnd why humanizing the justice system is key to public trustWhether you're in the legal field or just curious about how the court system really works, this episode offers insight into public service, the challenges of access to justice, and the people who keep the wheels turning at the Supreme Court of Missouri.📍Chapters00:00 Introduction02:05 Betsy’s Journey to the Supreme Court07:41 The Role of the Clerk12:59 Understanding Missouri Courts18:14 Technology in the Judiciary23:23 Access to Justice & Pro Se Litigants🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations from inside Missouri’s legal system.#SupremeCourt #LegalProfession #AccessToJustice #CourtAdministration #JudiciaryTransparency #MentorshipInLaw #MissouriLawMatters # Missouri Supreme Court

Chief Justice Brent Powell on Missouri Courts, Access to Justice, and Criminal Reform

On his first day as Chief Justice of the Missouri Supreme Court, Brent Powell sits down with Judge Matt Hamner to discuss Missouri’s legal system and the path that led him to its highest bench.This episode of Missouri Law Matters covers:– Chief Justice Powell’s early career and transition from prosecutor to judge– The role of Missouri’s Supreme Court in court administration– Criminal justice reform and expanding access to legal help– The challenges faced by self-represented (pro se) litigants– The importance and evolution of treatment courts in MissouriChief Justice Powell also shares personal insights about growing up in Springfield, the influence of his family and mentors, and the values that guide his work on and off the bench.Listen now to learn how Missouri’s courts are working to deliver justice for all.Keywords: Missouri Supreme Court, Chief Justice Brent Powell, access to justice, pro se, treatment courts, Missouri legal system, criminal justice reform, Missouri courts, public service, Missouri law podcastChapters00:00 Introduction to the Chief Judge01:54 Path to the Law08:18 Transitioning to Prosecution14:40 Becoming a Judge and Access to Justice16:53 Empowering Pro Se Litigants20:10 The Evolving Role of Courts26:11 Transitioning to the Appellate Bench33:48 The Chief Justice's Responsibilities36:49 Access to Justice Initiatives39:34 Improving Criminal Justice Administration44:27 Looking Ahead: Goals for the Future

What Court Clerks Wish You Knew: Missouri’s Unsung Legal Pros

In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Judge Matt Hamner talks with Heather Officer, Circuit Clerk for Laclede County, about the vital but often overlooked role of court clerks in the Missouri legal system. Heather shares what it really takes to manage court operations, from cross-training staff to navigating technology shifts.They explore how court clerks support judges, litigants (including those representing themselves), and the public - all while facing staffing shortages and high expectations. With 24 years of experience, Heather offers an inside look at what keeps the court system running smoothly and why community awareness of the clerk’s office matters more than ever.Follow the Supreme Court of Missouri on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedInFollow Missouri Courts on Facebook and InstagramLearn more at courts.mo.gov

Military & Civil Law in Missouri: Judge Kevin Hillman on Veterans Court, Fort Leonard Wood & Justice

In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Judge Matt Hamner sits down with Judge Kevin Hillman to explore the unique connection between military and civil law in Missouri - especially in communities surrounding Fort Leonard Wood.Judge Hillman shares his path from active-duty service to associate circuit judge, highlighting how Veterans Treatment Courts support military members and their families. He also discusses:Common legal issues facing service membersHow military and civilian courts intersect in MissouriThe evolution of technology in courtroomsBuilding trust in the justice system near military basesThis episode is essential for anyone interested in Missouri courts, military legal issues, Veterans Court, and the role of technology in modern justice.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with Missouri’s legal leaders.📌 Learn more about Missouri courts: https://www.courts.mo.gov/Supreme Court of Missouri Missouri Supreme Court#MissouriLawMatters #law #JudgeHillman #MilitaryLaw #FortLeonardWood #CivilLaw #MissouriCourts #legal #Tech #Court #Judge #veteran #nationalguard

Missouri Family Law: Child Custody, Mediation & Parenting Court Insights

Missouri Family Law Explained: Child Custody, Mediation & Parenting Court with Commissioner Sherrill RobertsMissouri Law Matters Podcast – Hosted by Judge Matt HamnerIn this in-depth episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Judge Matt Hamner is joined by Commissioner Sherrill Roberts, a respected Family Court Commissioner, to explore the evolving landscape of family law in Missouri. Together, they unpack the realities of family court — one of the most common ways people encounter the legal system — and share insight into the work happening behind the scenes to support families in crisis.From the rise in pro se litigants (individuals representing themselves) to the increased use of mediation in resolving child custody and support disputes, this episode sheds light on how courts are adapting to better serve families. Commissioner Roberts also highlights the groundbreaking Parenting Court program, which helps parents re-establish and strengthen connections with their children.The conversation goes beyond courtrooms to emphasize the importance of mentorship in the legal field, the emotional complexity of family law cases, and how commissioners approach their role with empathy and fairness. Whether you’re a parent navigating family court, a legal professional, or a policy advocate, this episode offers valuable insight into the challenges and innovations shaping Missouri family law today.Topics Covered:The role of Missouri family court commissionersNavigating child custody and child support casesThe benefits of mediation in family lawThe rise of pro se litigants in courtParenting Court and co-parenting support servicesLegal mentorship and training for new attorneysHow family courts are evolving to prioritize children’s best interests🔗 Learn more about Missouri’s court programs and explore additional resources at https://www.courts.mo.gov/.🗣️ Subscribe and share to stay informed about how Missouri’s legal system is working to serve its communities — one case at a time.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Family Law and the Role of a Commissioner03:34 Understanding the Family Court System11:47 The Journey to Becoming a Commissioner20:11 Navigating Family Law Cases in Clay County23:25 The Importance of Mediation in Family Law27:32 Evolution of Family Law Practices31:50 Rise of Pro Se Litigants35:28 Innovative Parenting Court Program46:13 Balancing Fairness in Family Law Decisions49:20 Advice for Navigating Family Law Cases