19th Judicial Circuit hosts 25th annual Law Merit Badge program

Scouts arrived at the courthouse in the early morning of Saturday, March 2, anticipating learning about the rule of law and how laws are designed to protect fundamental rights. The Law Merit Badge program was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Circuit Judge Joseph V. Salvi, Associate Judge Daniel L. Jasica, Associate Judge Christopher B. Morozin, employees of the 19th Judicial Circuit, the Lake County Sheriff's Office, the Lake County Coroner's Office, The Lake County State's Attorney's Office, the Lake County Public Defender's Office, the Lake County Circuit Clerk's Office and Lake County Adult Probation, and in conjunction with the Boy Scouts of America- Northeast Illinois Council.

The 25th annual one-day event attracted nearly 90 Scouts. Judge Salvi welcomed the group, introduced the volunteers, and provided the attendees with an overview of the activities planned for the day. After orientation, the Scouts were divided into three groups to receive a courthouse tour, a Sheriff's Department demonstration from Deputy Roxana Stancioiu and her police dog partner Drako, and a Lake County Coroner's Office tour from Chief Deputy Coroner Stephen Newton. The group then assembled to enjoy lunch and listen to Judge Jasica's introduction to the law and Judge Morozin's "How to Become a Lawyer" presentations before attending a mock trial.

Upon completing the full-day program, the Scouts were awarded their Law Merit Badges and issued certificates. Since the event began in 1997, over 1,500 Scouts have registered and completed the program successfully in Lake County.

For information or to participate in a future Law Merit Badge Day, email civilja@lakecountyil.gov.