Third Circuit Court to Mark America 250 Through Community
Outreach and Civic Education
As the U.S.
prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States
Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, the Third Judicial
Circuit of Michigan is joining courts across the state in
recognizing the milestone through community outreach and civic education
efforts.
The national
observance, known as America 250,
marks the nation’s semiquincentennial and encourages courts to highlight the
role of the judicial branch in American democracy. The initiative provides an
opportunity to help the public better understand how the courts function, why
the rule of law matters in everyday life, and the importance of an independent
judiciary.
In a message to
courts across the state, Megan K. Cavanagh, Chief Justice of the Michigan
Supreme Court, encouraged Michigan courts to participate in the
celebration through public engagement and educational activities that
strengthen public trust and confidence in the judiciary.
Third Circuit
Court Chief Judge Edward Ewell Jr. said the attention to America 250 offers
an opportunity to reflect on the judiciary’s role in serving the public. “One
of the best ways our court can celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary is by
continuing to provide accessible and equal access to justice,” Ewell said.
“Every day we work to ensure that Wayne County residents, business owners, and
community stakeholders have confidence that the courts are fair, open, and
responsive to their needs.”
The Third
Circuit Court will highlight its role in the community through several
public-facing events during the year. Among them is the court’s annual Law Day
program on April 29, which will bring students from Wayne County to the
courthouse to learn about the judicial system and the importance of the rule of
law.
Later in the
year, the court will also host its annual Adoption Day and Reunification Day
celebrations. The events highlight the role of the judicial system in bringing
families together. They also provide meaningful opportunities for the public to
engage with the judicial system while reinforcing the principles of fairness,
accountability, and equal justice that have guided the nation since the
founding era.
Since
September 2025 the members of the Third Circuit Court’s Bench have provided
presentations about the court and jury services to city council and township
board meetings across Wayne County. That will continue throughout 2026 as we
attempt to visit all 43 communities.
As the country
approaches this historic anniversary, the Third Circuit Court’s participation
in America 250
reflects its continued commitment to transparency, accessibility, and civic
understanding. This is an example of why Wayne County residents can have
confidence that they will have equal access to justice and that Third Circuit
Court adheres to the rule of law.
Our Mission:
We serve the community by providing accessible and equal justice for all.
Our Vision: We are an exemplary and innovative Court leading with integrity in providing justice and public service.
For more information, visit our website www.3rdcc.org.
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