What is Law Day?
Every year on May 1st, Law Day is observed as a nationwide event dedicated to honoring the principles of the rule of law. This occasion serves as a chance to appreciate the role of law and the legal system in safeguarding our freedom, working towards justice, and upholding the collective freedoms cherished by all Americans.
Competition
The Superior Court of San Benito will be hosting our annual Law Day on May 1st, 2026. This year, we will be inviting students in grades 9-12 and Gavilan College to participate. All students, in San Benito County, attending public, private, or home school, may enter the contest.
Students are allowed to enter the contest either in Essay form or Video.
For a complete list of instructions and how to enter, please review the contest rules.
Prizes
Individual scholarships, in the form of a gift card, will be awarded to the winners. The top entries will also be published on the court’s website and social media platforms. Unless explicitly stated that the submission should not be made public, it is implied that the submission can be posted publicly as a winning entry.
For any questions:
Please email the resourceteam@sanbenitocourt.org
Important Legal Stuff:
Submissions will not be accepted and are ineligible if they include any other content that contains or appears to contain profane, obscene, or inappropriate material; glorify or condone, or endorse or encourage, any illegal activity; and/or include any derogatory characterization of any person or group based on age, race, color, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, marital status, mental or physical disability, citizenship, creed, national origin, physical appearance, political affiliation, union membership, or other unethical or unlawful factors.
All entries become the property of the Superior Court of California, County of San Benito. Students are encouraged to keep copies of their entries (if feasible). Excerpts from submissions may be displayed in the Judicial Branch publications and/or websites. Entries will not be used for commercial purposes.
Theme: “The Rule of Law and the American Dream”
The 2026 Law Day theme is “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.” The rule of law—the idea that no person is above the law—is what ensures the rights of the people to live their lives as freely as possible and to pursue their dreams. The ABA encourages all Americans to recognize Law Day on May 1, 2026, and to reflect on how the rule of law ensures all Americans have the ability to fulfill their dreams.
President Michelle Behnke of the American Bar Association announces the 2026 Law Day theme, The Rule of Law and the American Dream. Watch this brief video to learn more!
Rules
STAY TUNED FOR THE RULES FOR THE 2026 LAW DAY COMPETITION!
Rules 2025: Click the link to see the required Cover Letter
Rules 2025:Click the link to see how to participate for the Essay competition.