Is It Legal to Record Conversations with HR, Supervisors, or Co-Workers in Missouri?

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Is It Legal to Record Conversations with HR, Supervisors, or Co-Workers in Missouri?

Understanding Missouri’s One-Party Consent Law—and What Happens When State Lines Get Involved

By Jeremy D. Hollingshead, Esq., Hollingshead & Dudley Trial Lawyers
June 6, 2025

Missouri is a one-party consent state when it comes to recording conversations. That means if you’re part of the conversation—whether it’s with HR, a supervisor, or a co-worker—you can legally record it without telling anyone. But things get more complicated when people from other states are involved.

What Does “One-Party Consent” Actually Mean?

Under Missouri law (see RSMo § 542.402), it is not illegal to record a conversation as long as one party consents. If you’re participating in the discussion, you’re that one party.

That means you don’t need permission from your boss, co-worker, or HR rep to hit record—as long as you’re part of the conversation.

How Does Federal Law Factor In?

Federal law also permits one-party consent, so Missouri residents generally don’t have to worry about violating federal wiretapping laws when recording conversations they’re involved in. But again, you must be an actual participant in the conversation.

What If the Other Person Is in a Two-Party (or “All-Party”) Consent State?

This is where things get murky. Imagine you’re in Missouri and you’re on a call or video conference with someone in California or Illinois—states that require everyone on the call to consent to a recording.

Missouri courts haven’t directly ruled on what happens when someone in a one-party state records a conversation involving someone in an all-party state. But in practice, few prosecutors (especially outside the strictest jurisdictions) are bringing criminal charges for out-of-state violations of their own wiretapping laws.

Still, it’s risky—especially in a workplace setting. You might avoid criminal charges, but that doesn’t mean your recording couldn’t be challenged in a civil case or create HR consequences.

💼 Why This Matters for Missouri Workers

We’ve seen countless situations where our clients were accused of misconduct, retaliation, or dishonesty—only to have a secret recording that proves their side of the story. In hostile work environments, being able to document conversations may make or break a case.

But you also don’t want to turn a valid legal claim into a mess because you violated another state’s laws. That’s why it’s smart to talk to a lawyer first.

Our Advice

  • ✅ In Missouri: You can legally record any conversation you’re a part of—yes, even with HR.
  • ⚠️ Cross-state calls: Be cautious. If others are in stricter states, get consent or talk to a lawyer.
  • 🚫 Never record if you’re not a participant. That’s illegal wiretapping.

📞 Need Help Navigating Missouri Employment Law?

If you believe you may be experiencing unlawful workplace discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, schedule a legal consultation with Hollingshead & Dudley’s experienced employment attorneys today by either calling (314) 480-5474 or visiting our consultation page at https://hdtriallawyers.com/employment-law/.