19 May 2022

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A group of about 65 attendees at a meeting of Springfield’s apartment and housing association had the chance to learn more about how Missouri’s pretrial release rules work. Judge Jerry Harmison Jr., a Greene County associate circuit judge, led the discussion.

“The focus was primarily on criminal law, as they have had many break-ins at some apartment complexes,” Harmison said. “Apartment owners are frustrated that criminal defendants are back on the streets earlier than they think is appropriate. To help them better understand the process, my focus was on explaining the pretrial bond rules that took effect two summers ago.

“I thought the presentation went well, and they appreciated it,” Harmison added.

Although the Supreme Court of Missouri’s civic education committee has prepared 20 different presentations about a number of different topics, Missouri judges like Harmison also welcome the opportunity to tailor presentations specific to a group’s needs. Ultimately, all presentations – whether formally prepared or informally built around audience questions – are intended to help the public better understand their court system.

To request a visit with a local judge, please contact the civic education committee at Civic.Education@courts.mo.gov.