Missouri Law Matters

Filing a Small Claims Case in Missouri? Here’s What a Judge Wants You to Know

🎙️ Filing a Small Claims Case in Missouri? Here’s What a Judge Wants You to KnowIn this episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Judge Matt Hamner sits down with Judge Jeanette Rodecap of Jackson County to talk all things small claims court. Whether you're representing yourself (pro se) or just want to understand the process better, this episode is packed with practical insights straight from the bench.You’ll learn:✅ How small claims court works in Missouri✅ What to expect when representing yourself✅ Common mistakes pro se litigants make—and how to avoid them✅ Why being organized and clear can make or break your case✅ How to observe court proceedings to prepareJudge Rodecap also shares stories from her time helping shape a legal system in Palau and why civic education matters more than ever.🎧 Tune in now to feel more confident navigating small claims court—Missouri style.#MissouriLawMatters #SmallClaimsCourt #ProSeLitigants #JudgeRodecap #MissouriCourts

You Can’t Handle the Truth!”: Law vs Hollywood with Judge Aaron Koeppen | Supreme Court of Missouri

What really happens in a courtroom — and what’s just Hollywood drama?In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Judge Matt Hamner sits down with Judge Aaron Koeppen to explore the powerful influence of movies and TV on how the public views the legal system. From the lasting legacy of To Kill a Mockingbird to the unforgettable line “You can’t handle the truth!” in A Few Good Men, the conversation unpacks the myths, the media, and the real mechanics of justice. Learn how legal dramas have shaped expectations in the courtroom — and what jurors and citizens alike should understand about the real law.🎧 Listen in as we break down:The CSI Effect and juror biasWhat legal shows get right (and wrong)How entertainment shapes trust in the justice systemSubscribe for more behind-the-scenes insights from Missouri Courts and legal professionals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests00:27 The Journey to Becoming a Judge05:49 Influence of Media on Legal Aspirations09:04 The Popularity of Legal Dramas11:56 Why Courtrooms Make Great Entertainment15:09 Favorite Legal Movies and Shows18:04 Historical Context of Legal Films21:10 Impactful Legal Movies24:06 Exploring Civil Law in Film26:57 Current Legal Shows and Recommendations33:38 The Balance of Reality and Entertainment in Legal Dramas40:40 Misconceptions About the Legal Process46:56 The CSI Effect and Its Impact on Jury Expectations52:20 The Role of Judges in Courtroom Dramas55:05 Wishing for a More Exciting Reality59:18 Invitation to Experience Real Courtroom Proceedings

Life as a Small-Town Prosecutor: Judge Kelly Broniec’s Journey to the Supreme Court of Missouri

In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Judge Matt Hamner interviews Judge Kelly Broniec of the Missouri Supreme Court. They discuss Judge Broniec's journey from a small-town upbringing to her current role on the Supreme Court, including her experiences in law school, private practice, and as a prosecutor. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, community engagement, and mental health awareness in the legal profession. Judge Broniec shares insights into the challenges and surprises of being a judge, as well as her commitment to serving the community and supporting her colleagues.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Missouri Law Matters00:54 Meet Judge Kelly Broniec01:54 Early Life and Education03:54 Path to Law School06:38 Transitioning to Prosecutor08:25 Balancing Dual Roles12:03 Skills Developed in Practice13:06 Becoming a Full-Time Prosecutor19:28 From Prosecutor to Associate Circuit Judge21:16 The Journey to Becoming a Judge22:59 Adjusting to the Judicial Role26:37 Experience as an Associate Circuit Judge29:18 Transition to the Court of Appeals31:15 Joining the Missouri Supreme Court36:15 Surprises in the Supreme Court Role37:56 Community Engagement and Outreach40:09 Finding Balance in Life42:06 Reflections on the Journey47:05 Mental Health Awareness in the Legal Profession

Justice, Technology & Trust:The Future of Civic Education in Missouri Judge Rebeca Navarro McKelvey

In this episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Judge Matt Hamner and Judge Rebeca Navarro-Mckelvey discuss the importance of civic education within the Missouri court system. They explore Judge Navarro-Mckelvey's unique journey from Nicaragua to the bench, the significance of mentorship in the legal profession, and the transition from trial court to appellate court. The conversation emphasizes the role of civic education in empowering communities and the future of legal education in a technologically advancing world.00:00 Introduction to Civic Education in Missouri Courts08:43 The Role of Mentorship in Law13:51 Civic Education Initiatives for Youth18:55 The Garden of Innocents: A Community Project23:39 Transitioning from Trial to Appellate Court29:50 Civic Education: A Judicial Responsibility34:25 Engaging the Community through Civic Education39:57 The Future of Civic Education in a Digital AgeLearn more about Garden of Innocents: https://www.gardenofinnocents.orgFollow the Supreme Court of Missouri for more:Facebook: https://bit.ly/4hXXuFiInstagram: https://bit.ly/41YFtSPMissouri Courts Forms + Resources: https://www.courts.mo.gov/

Diversity, Mentorship, and Tech in Missouri Courts: A Candid Discussion with Chief Justice Mary Russell

In this inaugural episode of Missouri Law Matters, host Matt Hamner welcomes Chief Justice Mary Russell to discuss her remarkable journey in the Missouri court system. They explore her 20 years on the Missouri Supreme Court, the importance of mentorship in the legal profession, and the advancements in technology that enhance court accessibility. Chief Justice Russell shares insights from her tours of Missouri's judicial circuits, her experiences growing up in Hannibal, and the evolving representation of women in law. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement and the role of judges in fostering public trust through diversity and understanding.