The Third Branch
State Bar seeks volunteers for Law Day
The Young Lawyers Division (YLD) of the State Bar of Wisconsin is seeking volunteer lawyers, including judges, to connect personally with Wisconsin students on Law Day, May 1.
This year marks the 150th anniversary of the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation, and this year's theme, selected by the American Bar Association, is Realizing the Dream: Equality for All. The occasion provides an opportunity to explore the movement for civil and human rights in America and the impact it has had in promoting the ideal of equality under the law.
Law Day is a great opportunity for lawyers to share their experiences with kids, said YLD board member and Law Day coordinator, Tony Turchik.
"This year we hope to increase the number of classrooms that participate. We need you to help us – Do you know a teacher? Do they want a lawyer to come and talk to their classroom? Do you want to volunteer?" Tuchik said.
Lawyers and judges interested in participating should contact Turchik by e-mail at LawDayWI@gmail.com.
ABA-sponsored Law Day activities are just part of the court outreach and education resources available to judges and lawyers who want to help improve students' understanding of the judiciary, courts and legal system.
The website iCivics.org (external link) makes available a wide assortment of curriculum-aligned educational games and teaching materials, including classroom volunteer guides, that also could be used on Law Day. Many judges and lawyers have created their own lessons and activities, such as mock trials with students, to promote understanding of the law and legal system on Law Day.
Additional resources for teachers and anyone else interested in helping teach about the courts can be found on the Wisconsin court system's website www.wicourtgs.gov under the educational resources link.