Missouri Law Matters

Latest Episodes:

Chief Justice Brent Powell on Missouri Courts, Access to Justice, and Criminal Reform Jul 11, 2025

Show notes

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

What Court Clerks Wish You Knew: Missouri’s Unsung Legal Pros Jun 27, 2025

Show notes

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.

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Learn more at courts.mo.gov

Military & Civil Law in Missouri: Judge Kevin Hillman on Veterans Court, Fort Leonard Wood & Justice Jun 13, 2025

Show notes

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/

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#MissouriLawMatters #law #JudgeHillman #MilitaryLaw #FortLeonardWood #CivilLaw #MissouriCourts #legal #Tech #Court #Judge #veteran #nationalguard

Missouri Family Law: Child Custody, Mediation & Parenting Court Insights May 30, 2025

Show notes

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 May 16, 2025

Show notes

🎙️ 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

You Can’t Handle the Truth!”: Law vs Hollywood with Judge Aaron Koeppen | Supreme Court of Missouri May 01, 2025

Show notes

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

Life as a Small-Town Prosecutor: Judge Kelly Broniec’s Journey to the Supreme Court of Missouri Apr 18, 2025

Show notes

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

Justice, Technology & Trust:The Future of Civic Education in Missouri Judge Rebeca Navarro McKelvey Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

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/

Diversity, Mentorship, and Tech in Missouri Courts: A Candid Discussion with Chief Justice Mary Russell Mar 20, 2025

Show notes

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.

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