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 attorneys

• How community service and engagement impact legal access

• Incentive programs from other states, like South Dakota

• The growing role of technology in law and virtual hearings

• Why access to justice matters for every Missourian

This 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

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.

Takeaways

To 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setup

00:21 Understanding Judicial Ethics and Impartiality

03:20 Judicial Decision-Making and Public Perception

12:09 Courtroom Realities vs. Media Portrayals

15:11 The Art of Legal Strategy and Preparation

15:24 The Art of Cross-Examination

15:51 Understanding Elected Judges in Missouri

17:37 Balancing Law and Public Opinion

19:44 The Role of Judicial Decisions

19:57 Understanding Appellate Courts

20:11 The Role of Appellate Courts

21:23 Mentorship in Legal Careers

25:06 Advice for Aspiring Judges

28:30 Navigating Attorney-Client Relationships

39:35 Preparing for Court Appearances

47:59 Surviving and Thriving in Law School

Keywords

Missouri 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

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 clerk

• Why transparency and technology matter in today’s judiciary

• The rising number of pro se litigants

• How mentorship shapes legal careers

• And why humanizing the justice system is key to public trust

Whether 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.

📍Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:05 Betsy’s Journey to the Supreme Court
07:41 The Role of the Clerk
12:59 Understanding Missouri Courts
18:14 Technology in the Judiciary
23:23 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

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 Missouri

Chief 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 podcast

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Chief Judge

01:54 Path to the Law

08:18 Transitioning to Prosecution

14:40 Becoming a Judge and Access to Justice

16:53 Empowering Pro Se Litigants

20:10 The Evolving Role of Courts

26:11 Transitioning to the Appellate Bench

33:48 The Chief Justice's Responsibilities

36:49 Access to Justice Initiatives

39:34 Improving Criminal Justice Administration

44:27 Looking Ahead: Goals for the Future

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 LinkedIn

Follow Missouri Courts on Facebook and Instagram

Learn more at courts.mo.gov

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 members

• How military and civilian courts intersect in Missouri

• The evolution of technology in courtrooms

• Building trust in the justice system near military bases

This 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 Explained: Child Custody, Mediation & Parenting Court with Commissioner Sherrill Roberts
Missouri Law Matters Podcast – Hosted by Judge Matt Hamner

In 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 commissioners

• Navigating child custody and child support cases

• The benefits of mediation in family law

• The rise of pro se litigants in court

• Parenting Court and co-parenting support services

• Legal mentorship and training for new attorneys

• How 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Family Law and the Role of a Commissioner

03:34 Understanding the Family Court System

11:47 The Journey to Becoming a Commissioner

20:11 Navigating Family Law Cases in Clay County

23:25 The Importance of Mediation in Family Law

27:32 Evolution of Family Law Practices

31:50 Rise of Pro Se Litigants

35:28 Innovative Parenting Court Program

46:13 Balancing Fairness in Family Law Decisions

49:20 Advice for Navigating Family Law Cases

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

In 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 prepare

Judge 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

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 bias

• What legal shows get right (and wrong)

• How entertainment shapes trust in the justice system

Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes insights from Missouri Courts and legal professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

00:27 The Journey to Becoming a Judge

05:49 Influence of Media on Legal Aspirations

09:04 The Popularity of Legal Dramas

11:56 Why Courtrooms Make Great Entertainment

15:09 Favorite Legal Movies and Shows

18:04 Historical Context of Legal Films

21:10 Impactful Legal Movies

24:06 Exploring Civil Law in Film

26:57 Current Legal Shows and Recommendations

33:38 The Balance of Reality and Entertainment in Legal Dramas

40:40 Misconceptions About the Legal Process

46:56 The CSI Effect and Its Impact on Jury Expectations

52:20 The Role of Judges in Courtroom Dramas

55:05 Wishing for a More Exciting Reality

59:18 Invitation to Experience Real Courtroom Proceedings

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 Matters

00:54 Meet Judge Kelly Broniec

01:54 Early Life and Education

03:54 Path to Law School

06:38 Transitioning to Prosecutor

08:25 Balancing Dual Roles

12:03 Skills Developed in Practice

13:06 Becoming a Full-Time Prosecutor

19:28 From Prosecutor to Associate Circuit Judge

21:16 The Journey to Becoming a Judge

22:59 Adjusting to the Judicial Role

26:37 Experience as an Associate Circuit Judge

29:18 Transition to the Court of Appeals

31:15 Joining the Missouri Supreme Court

36:15 Surprises in the Supreme Court Role

37:56 Community Engagement and Outreach

40:09 Finding Balance in Life

42:06 Reflections on the Journey

47:05 Mental Health Awareness in the Legal Profession