Nevada County Superior Court Hosts 5th Grade Students for Law Day

The Nevada County Superior Court will host 5th grade students from Nevada County schools for Law Day on May 7, 2026. The event will offer students an opportunity to visit the courthouse, participate in a mock trial, and learn about how each part of the justice system supports the rule of law through their work.
In collaboration with the Nevada County Superintendent of Schools, the Court will host approximately 175 students and teachers at the Nevada City Courthouse. Sessions include a mock trial, a tour of the courthouse, and an opportunity to engage with law enforcement and other justice partners.

In alignment with the American Bar Association, the theme for the Court’s Law Day is "The Rule of Law and the American Dream." Students will gain an understanding of how the justice system promotes fairness, protects individual rights, and supports opportunity within our system of government.

"The Court is central to uploading the Rule of Law, but we do not do it alone," said Presiding Judge B. Scott Thomsen. "The judge is supported by clerical and administrative staff, and all our justice partners have their roles in supporting fair and equal access to the Court. On Law Day, we are lucky to share with curious 5th graders how the Court supports people to resolve their most difficult conflicts whether in Family Law, Criminal or any other court matters."

"The Nevada County Superintendent of Schools is proud to collaborate with the Court to provide this invaluable experience for our Nevada County students, " said Scott W. Lay, Superintendent of Schools. "This gives students a great chance to learn about our judicial system and the role each department plays." 

Laila Waheed, Nevada Court Executive Officer, said "We are very happy to partner with the Superintendent of Schools to provide the opportunity to visit the court for our local 5th grade students. Understanding how the Court serves the community and upholds the Rule of Law for all people is an important part of civics education. We also want students to know what it means to pursue careers in public service and the Judicial Branch. On Law Day, students can see first-hand how we work together and try on those important roles themselves."

Civics education is an important part of the Court’s community outreach programs, which includes the Judges in the Classroom program in addition to Law Day.

View the press release.