Apply Conflict-of-Interest Rules Universally
The Missouri Supreme Court shall not exempt municipal court personnel from its conflict-of-interest rules.
Prevent Conflicts of Interest Among Prosecutors
Municipal prosecutors shall be prohibited from representing criminal defendants in municipal courts within the county in which they serve as a prosecutor.
Prevent Conflicts of Interest Among Judges
Municipal judges shall be prohibited from engaging in municipal court practice in the county in which they serve as a municipal judge.
Consolidate Municipal Courts
The Missouri Supreme Court shall take direct jurisdiction of municipal court functions through the associate circuit court and consolidate into an appropriate number the municipal courts for the purpose of the efficient administration of justice.
Conduct Annual Municipal Court Audits
Annual audits of municipal courts shall be implemented, and municipal courts shall be required to deliver copies of case records and documents to the Office of State Courts Administrator in compliance with audit requests.
Eliminate Sharing of Municipal Files
To limit inappropriate sharing of information, all municipal courts and municipal prosecutors shall maintain separate files.
Clearly Define Municipal Court Procedures
All operating procedures of municipal courts shall be clearly defined and followed, and all staff shall be trained in those procedures.
Formalize and Standardize Court Documenting Procedures
All municipal courts shall explicitly establish formal and uniform systems of documentation and record keeping at every stage of defendants’ court involvement. Whenever possible and appropriate, such documents and records shall be available to defendants.