🎙️ 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:

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?

🎧 Listen in as we break down:

• The CSI Effect and juror bias

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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

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 Courts

08:43 The Role of Mentorship in Law

13:51 Civic Education Initiatives for Youth

18:55 The Garden of Innocents: A Community Project

23:39 Transitioning from Trial to Appellate Court

29:50 Civic Education: A Judicial Responsibility

34:25 Engaging the Community through Civic Education

39:57 The Future of Civic Education in a Digital Age

Learn more about Garden of Innocents: https://www.gardenofinnocents.org

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Missouri Courts Forms + Resources: https://www.courts.mo.gov/

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.