<p>In this episode of <em>Missouri Law Matters</em>, Judge Matt Hamner speaks with <strong>Joseph Goff, Jr</strong>, private practice attorney and former judge, about his unique journey through Missouri’s legal system — from prosecutor to judge to advocate for civic education.</p><p>Together, they explore how <strong>civic education builds public trust</strong>, why <strong>judges should connect with their communities</strong>, and how <strong>young lawyers</strong> can help <strong>demystify the court system</strong> through outreach and engagement.</p><p>👉 <strong>Key Topics:</strong></p><ul><li><p>Missouri law and the judicial system</p></li><li><p>Civic education and community engagement</p></li><li><p>Legal careers and professional development</p></li><li><p>Trust and transparency in courts</p></li><li><p>The role of judges and lawyers in public education</p></li></ul><p>📍 <strong>Chapters</strong><br>00:00 Personal Experiences in the Legal Field<br>01:43 The Influence of Sports on Legal Careers<br>13:00 Exploring the 24th Circuit: Counties and Culture<br>14:28 Judicial Responsibilities: A Day in the Life of a Judge<br>16:53 Transitioning to the Bench: Expectations vs. Reality<br>19:53 Civic Education: The Role of Judges in Community Engagement<br>25:11 Civic Education Committee: Goals and Initiatives<br>32:59 The Importance of Civic Education for Young Lawyers<br>37:06 From Judge to Lawyer: Navigating Career Transitions</p><p>💬 <em>“Civic education is incredibly important. We only have the trust of the people.”</em> — Joseph Goff</p><p><br></p><p>Follow the Supreme Court of Missouri to learn more about Your Missouri Courts</p><p><br></p><p># missouri supreme court</p>