Understanding the Courts and Judiciary System in Missouri

The judiciary system is the backbone of any state’s governance structure, upholding the law and ensuring justice prevails. In the Show-Me State of Missouri, the judiciary system is as intricate as it is essential. So, what exactly makes up the Courts and Judiciary system in Missouri? Let’s explore.

The Structure of Missouri’s Judiciary System

The judiciary system in Missouri operates on three main levels: The Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and the Circuit Courts.

The Supreme Court of Missouri

At the apex of the hierarchy is the Supreme Court of Missouri, the highest court in the state. It has seven judges who make decisions on constitutional matters and interpret the state’s laws.

Judges and their Roles

Each judge in the Supreme Court of Missouri serves a 12-year term. They take on appeals from lower courts and make rulings that serve as legal precedents. These judges play a crucial role in shaping Missouri’s legal landscape.

The Missouri Court of Appeals

Below the Supreme Court is the Missouri Court of Appeals, divided into three districts: Eastern, located in St. Louis; Western, located in Kansas City; and Southern, located in Springfield.

Jurisdiction and Responsibilities

The Court of Appeals handles cases that aren’t exclusively under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. They review decisions made in the Circuit Courts and offer a platform for appeals.

The Circuit Courts of Missouri

Circuit Courts are the primary trial courts in Missouri, hearing a broad range of civil and criminal cases.

Roles and Jurisdiction

Circuit Courts deal with cases including felonies, domestic relations cases, civil lawsuits, probate and juvenile cases, and misdemeanors.

Specialized Divisions within the Circuit Courts

Within the Circuit Courts are specialized divisions like the Family Court, the Probate Court, and the Small Claims Court, each dealing with specific types of cases.

The Process of Appointing Judges in Missouri

The appointment of judges in Missouri follows a unique system known as the Missouri Nonpartisan Court Plan, often referred to as the “Missouri Plan.”

The Missouri Nonpartisan Court Plan

This plan is a method used to select judges based on merit rather than political affiliation.

Understanding the Selection Process

A commission reviews applicants and selects three candidates. The governor then appoints one of these candidates to serve as a judge.

The Role of the Judiciary in Missouri’s Legal System

The judiciary plays an indispensable role in Missouri’s legal system.

Upholding the Law

The courts interpret and apply the law, ensuring laws are followed by all.

Protecting Citizens’ Rights

The judiciary also safeguards the constitutional rights of Missouri’s citizens, providing a venue for grievances to be heard and resolved.

Noteworthy Cases in Missouri Judiciary History

Over the years, the courts in Missouri have presided over several noteworthy cases that have influenced both state and national laws. Examples include State ex rel. Gaines v. Canada, where the Supreme Court of Missouri’s decision was later overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court, leading to significant progress in the civil rights movement.

Conclusion

The courts and judiciary system in Missouri provide a robust framework for the dispensation of justice. From the Supreme Court to the Circuit Courts, each level plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order, upholding citizens’ rights, and shaping the legal landscape of the state.

FAQs

1. What is the highest court in Missouri? The highest court in Missouri is the Supreme Court of Missouri.
2. What is the Missouri Nonpartisan Court Plan? The Missouri Nonpartisan Court Plan is a method used to select judges based on merit rather than political affiliation.
3. How are judges selected in Missouri? A commission reviews applicants and selects three candidates. The governor then appoints one of these candidates to serve as a judge.
4. What types of cases do the Circuit Courts in Missouri handle? Circuit Courts deal with cases including felonies, domestic relations cases, civil lawsuits, probate and juvenile cases, and misdemeanors.
5. What are some of the specialized divisions within the Circuit Courts? Within the Circuit Courts are specialized divisions like the Family Court, the Probate Court, and the Small Claims Court, each dealing with specific types of cases.