Champaign County Judiciary Announces Law Day Events and Student Contests

Essay and poster competitions planned ahead of May 1 courthouse celebration.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Champaign County Judiciary is inviting students across the county to participate in Law Day activities, including a mock trial, courthouse tour, and essay and poster contests centered on the 2026 theme 'The Rule of Law and the American Dream'.

Why it matters

Law Day celebrates the role of law in protecting freedoms and ensuring justice. By engaging local youth through these educational events and contests, the Champaign County Judiciary aims to promote understanding of the legal system and the importance of the rule of law.

The details

Students will be invited to the Champaign County Courthouse on May 1 to observe a mock trial, tour the courthouse, visit the Lincoln exhibit, and meet judges and court personnel. Middle and high school students can enter an essay contest on the Law Day theme, with first-place winners receiving $100 and second-place winners receiving $50. Grade school students can participate in a poster contest centered on the same theme, with first and second-place prizes of $100 and $50, respectively.

  • Law Day is observed annually on May 1.
  • Essays and poster contest entries must be submitted by March 31.

The players

Randall B. Rosenbaum

Chief Judge of the Champaign County Judiciary.

American Bar Association

The organization that has selected 'The Rule of Law and the American Dream' as the 2026 Law Day theme.

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What they’re saying

“The rule of law — the principle that no person is above the law — ensures people can live freely and pursue their dreams.”

— Randall B. Rosenbaum, Chief Judge (Chambana Today)

What’s next

The Champaign County Judiciary will host the Law Day events and announce the winners of the essay and poster contests on May 1, 2026.

The takeaway

By engaging local students in educational activities and contests centered on the rule of law, the Champaign County Judiciary is fostering a deeper understanding of the legal system and its role in protecting individual freedoms and the American Dream.