<p><em>Missouri Family Law Explained: Child Custody, Mediation &amp; Parenting Court with Commissioner Sherrill Roberts</em><br><em>Missouri Law Matters Podcast – Hosted by Judge Matt Hamner</em></p><p>In this in-depth episode of <em>Missouri Law Matters</em>, host Judge Matt Hamner is joined by <strong>Commissioner Sherrill Roberts</strong>, a respected Family Court Commissioner, to explore the evolving landscape of <strong>family law in Missouri</strong>. 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.</p><p>From the <strong>rise in pro se litigants</strong> (individuals representing themselves) to the increased use of <strong>mediation</strong> 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 <strong>Parenting Court</strong> program, which helps parents re-establish and strengthen connections with their children.</p><p>The conversation goes beyond courtrooms to emphasize the importance of <strong>mentorship in the legal field</strong>, 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 <strong>challenges and innovations shaping Missouri family law today</strong>.</p><p><strong>Topics Covered:</strong></p><ul><li><p>The role of Missouri family court commissioners</p></li><li><p>Navigating child custody and child support cases</p></li><li><p>The benefits of mediation in family law</p></li><li><p>The rise of pro se litigants in court</p></li><li><p>Parenting Court and co-parenting support services</p></li><li><p>Legal mentorship and training for new attorneys</p></li><li><p>How family courts are evolving to prioritize children’s best interests</p></li></ul><p>🔗 Learn more about Missouri’s court programs and explore additional resources at https://www.courts.mo.gov/.</p><p>🗣️ <em>Subscribe and share</em> to stay informed about how Missouri’s legal system is working to serve its communities — one case at a time.</p><p><br></p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Family Law and the Role of a Commissioner</p><p>03:34 Understanding the Family Court System</p><p>11:47 The Journey to Becoming a Commissioner</p><p>20:11 Navigating Family Law Cases in Clay County</p><p>23:25 The Importance of Mediation in Family Law</p><p>27:32 Evolution of Family Law Practices</p><p>31:50 Rise of Pro Se Litigants</p><p>35:28 Innovative Parenting Court Program</p><p>46:13 Balancing Fairness in Family Law Decisions</p><p>49:20 Advice for Navigating Family Law Cases</p><p><br></p>