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
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27:37
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27:37
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
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54:36
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
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33:48
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33:48
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
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50:32
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
Dive into the heart of Missouri’s legal world with “Missouri Law Matters,” the Supreme Court of Missouri’s exclusive podcast. Go behind the scenes to uncover real stories about Missouri’s judicial process, meet the judges shaping the law, and explore the big issues impacting Missourians daily. With expert insights and surprising details, each episode brings you closer to the action in Missouri’s courts. Whether you’re a law enthusiast or just curious, “Missouri Law Matters” makes understanding Missouri’s justice system engaging and exciting.
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