Missouri voters have approved changes in the state's constitution to give the Supreme Court exclusive jurisdiction – the sole legal power to hear – over five types of cases on appeal.

Pursuant to Article V, Section 3 of the Missouri Constitution, these cases involve: Unless their case involves one of those five issues, people who want a trial court's decision reviewed must appeal to the Missouri Court of Appeals.

The Supreme Court licenses attorneys practicing in Missouri, and disciplines lawyers and judges for violating ethical rules.

Judges serving for at least a year are placed on the general election ballot for a retention vote of the people.

Ginger Gooch is the latest appointee to the Court, having been appointed by Missouri Governor Mike Parson in October 2023.

[7] The current Chief Justice is Mary Rhodes Russell, whose term began July 1, 2023 and will serve until June 30, 2025.