THE AMERICAN JURY: WE THE PEOPLE IN ACTION

The theme for Law Day 2005 has been announced. Law Day will focus on American jury system and its role in our democracy.

Law Day is an opportunity for all Americans to celebrate and enjoy our freedoms. The jury is the embodiment of democracy. We entrust juries-small bodies of ordinary men and women-with decisions that involve the liberties and property of defendants. In doing so, we confirm our faith in the ability of people to make just and wise decisions, and that is the very definition of democracy. We also see the jury system as an opportunity to educate Americans in law, legal processes, and decision-making in a democracy.

On this Law Day, we can help people understand the jury system, and appreciate their role in making it effective.

We will have more information about the theme, and materials to help you present it, shortly.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

In 2005, May 1--Law Day--is on a Sunday. So what day should you celebrate Law Day on? What about Law Week?

The choice is yours. May 1 is the official date, but we assume that bars, courts, schools, and others will celebrate Law Day/Week whenever it works best for them. Many Law Day celebrations extend a week or more, as Law Day planners find creative ways to reach out to schools and the community.