Bar News - April 4, 2008
Rule of Law Is 2008 Theme
“Making a connection with the children and teaching them about a profession that I love was a learning experience for me, too, and I will cherish it as one of those rare days in life when I may have actually made a difference."
- Amy LaBelle, attorney, following a Law Day visit to Jewett Street School in Manchester.
That was a quote from an attorney participating in Law Day three years ago, but it is worth remembering – as Law Day is as gratifying to the volunteers as it is educational for the students.
Please consider participating in Law Day – the official date is Friday, May 2, but both schools and volunteers are free to make arrangements for whatever date and time is most convenient to them. (Also, be aware that the NH Supreme Court has issued an order allowing continuances under most circumstances to facilitate participation in Law Day on May 2.)
As usual, the NH Bar’s Law Related Education program is providing a variety of lesson plans, activities or talking points lawyers and judges can use in visits to classrooms.
Several new tools are available this year, including:
- Rule of Law in Times of Crisis. This high-school level lesson plan can use both historical events and current events to encourage discussion of the importance of the rule of law in our society. It springs from the Ben Franklin quote: “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.”
- Guide to New Hampshire Courts. This booklet, available as a PDF at the Bar’s Web site, was developed by the Judicial Branch and the NH Bar Association, to provide a quick guide to the structure and functions of our state courts.
- Rules, rules, rules – The Eraser game. This exercise, suited for elementary-level grades, provides an interactive, fun way for younger students to appreciate the need for rules and laws.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the designation by President Eisenhower of Law Day across the United States. Use the signup form, or look for the Law Day page on the Bar’s Web site for more information.
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