Annual Court Observances

Law Day

The Rule of Law in Action

Observed each May 1, Law Day is a celebration of the rule of law and its role in protecting liberty, ensuring fairness, and strengthening democracy.

It’s a day to move beyond concepts and into experience – exploring how laws are created, how they function, and how they shape everyday life.

Explore Law Day Programs 

Constitution Day

Exploring the Foundation of Our Democracy

Observed each September 17, Constitution Day brings the United States Constitution to life through interactive learning and civic engagement.

Rather than simply studying history, participants step into it—discovering how constitutional principles continue to guide court decisions and protect individual rights today.

Possible Constitution Day Activities:

  • Start a conversation about civics - Talk with family, friends, students, or coworkers about constitutional rights, responsibilities and the role each branch of government plays.
  • “The Constitution in the Courtroom” - Educate yourself how federal and state courts work and how Maryland’s courts serve communities across the state.
  • Read the U.S. Constitution
  • Learn a Constitution Fact:
    • It was signed on September 17, 1787. Thirty-nine delegates signed the Constitution in Philadelphia.
    • The Constitution has just 4,543 words. That makes it one of the shortest written national constitutions still in use.
    • It created three branches of government. The legislative, executive, and judicial branches were designed with checks and balances so no single branch holds all the power.
    • The Constitution has 27 amendments. The first 10 amendments, known as the Bill of Rights, were ratified in 1791.
    • "We the People” are its first three words. They reflect the principle that the authority of the U.S. government ultimately comes from the people.
  • Learn About Your Rights - The U.S. Constitution provides important protections for people involved in the court system. These include the right to due process, the right to a fair and speedy trial, the right to an attorney in criminal cases, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the right to equal protection under the law. Courts play an important role in upholding these constitutional rights and ensuring the law is applied fairly.
     

Bill of Rights Day

Celebrating Fundamental Liberties

Bill of Rights Day is observed each year on December 15 to commemorate the ratification of the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution in 1791. The Bill of Rights protects fundamental freedoms and legal protections, including freedom of speech and religion, the right to a fair trial, and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.

The public can recognize Bill of Rights Day by reading the first 10 amendments, and how these rights apply in everyday life, visiting a courthouse or historic site or talking with family and friends about the rights and freedoms protected by the Constitution.

Celebrate Bill of Rights Day by participating in activities such as: