Click Here for 2008 Performance Evaluations for Non-Partisan Judges

Missouri's Court System
Missouri’s courts belong to the public. Although more than 400 judges decide cases and preside over trials in Missouri’s courts, it is Missourians who own the court system and who are ultimately responsible for the quality of justice. What comprises the state court system? How does it work?

Need a Speaker? Call The Missouri Bar
Politicians of both major parties – state and national -- are talking about courts, judges and justice. Sifting the fact from opinion, and the politics from the basic principles, requires a solid knowledge of the role of our courts. Now you can get a clear perspective on Missouri courts from Missouri lawyers. Finding a speaker for your group who can cut through the politics and head straight to the core issues is as easy as contacting The Missouri Bar. Click here to request a free speaker.

Missouri's Judges
"Our legal system is based on the principle that an independent, fair and competent judiciary will interpret and apply the laws that govern us. The role of the judiciary is central to American concepts of justice and the rule of law." Preamble of the Missouri Rules of Conduct.

Judicial Elections and Retention
Missouri has two systems for electing judges: a partisan system and a Non-Partisan Court Plan.

Juror Information
Jury duty is a responsibility and a privilege. Last year, Missourians relied upon juries in 811 civil trials and 959 criminal trials. To select those jurors, more than 350,000 questionnaires were mailed to Missourians to determine whether they were qualified for jury duty.

Speak Up for Missouri Courts––Make Your Opinion Count
Are adequately funded courts important to you? Are we doing all we can to ensure an unbiased and fair judiciary? Legislators want and need to hear from their constituents.

Lesson Plans for Teachers
The Missouri Bar has an extensive law-related education program to assist teachers of civics classes at all levels, including elementary. The Missouri Bar website includes descriptions of all the programs and resources available to teachers. The following lesson plans help students think critically about the role of the judiciary in a democracy.