Jury service is one of the most important civic duties you can perform. The protection of rights and liberties in circuit courts largely is achieved through the teamwork of judge and jury. You do not need any knowledge of the legal system to be a juror.

"You know that being an American is more than a matter of where your parents came from. It is a belief that all men are created free and equal, and that everyone deserves an even break."
President Harry S. Truman

To get that even break, plaintiffs and defendants depend upon the legal expertise of attorneys to assist them in accessing the judicial system.

The legal term for representing yourself is called
"pro se." This section of the website has forms and instructions on how to file a petition. Court staff can provide some assistance about how to fill out the forms, but cannot provide legal advice.

The Family Court has exclusive, original jurisdiction in all matters involving marriage, child custody, adult abuse and neglect, and all related matters. In Jackson County, these matters are heard in one of the three locations depending whether the case falls into the Juvenile Justice or Marriage and Family category.

"No person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law."
Bill of Rights, Missouri Constitution

The function of court administration is to assure that justice is administered in accordance with these fundamental rights.