Rule of Law Video Contest presented by the CBA Rule of Law Task Force
Calling All CU-Boulder and DU Students!
Lights, Camera, Justice!
The Colorado Bar Association invites University of Colorado-Boulder and University of Denver undergraduate and graduate students to participate in our Rule of Law Video Contest. Use your creativity to help others understand the fundamental principles that protect our freedoms and ensure justice for all.
Contest Overview
- Who Can Enter: All undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at the University of Colorado - Boulder or at the University of Denver
- Video Length: 30-60 seconds
- Submission Window: March 1 through April 15, 2026
- Total Scholarship Prizes: $7,000, including a $3,000 first prize
Choose Your Topic
Create a video explaining one of these essential rule of law principles:
- Respect for the Rule of Law - The principle that laws apply equally to all people, regardless of their position or status in society.
- Judicial Independence - How judges make decisions based on law and facts, free from political pressure or outside influence.
- Due Process — Everyone is entitled to their day in court ensuring fair treatment.
- Separation of Powers - How the three branches of government (executive, legislative, judicial) check and balance each other's power.
Your Target Audience
Create content for non-legal professionals
- Speak to Gen Alpha, Gen Z/iGen, Millenials, Gen X, Gen Jones, Boomers and/or the Silent Generation about your chosen topic.
Creative Freedom
Your Video, Your Way
- Live action with friends or family
- Animation or motion graphics
- AI-generated content
- Documentary style
- Comedy, drama, or educational format
- Mix and match any approach
AI Policy:
We welcome AI collaboration! If you use AI tools, simply include a 10-15 second explanation of your creative process at the end of your video. We're judging primarily on message clarity and educational impact, not production value.
Scholarship Prizes
- 1st Place: $3,000
- Honorable Mentions (4): $1,000 each
Winners will be featured on CBA's website, social media channels, and in our publications reaching thousands of individuals statewide.
Contest Rules
Video Requirements
- 30-60 seconds in length
- Focus on one of the four rule of law principles
- Educational and non-partisan content
- No political references or endorsements
- Any video format or style acceptable
AI Use Requirements
- Any level of AI assistance permitted
- Include 10-15 second explanation of creative process at video end
- Must demonstrate understanding of chosen rule of law concept
- Judging focuses on message clarity and educational impact
Submission Requirements
- Submit through CBA website form
- Individual or group student submissions only (scholarship prize to be shared among group members)
- Digital release forms must be agreed to (included in submission form)
- One submission per student or group
How to Enter
- Choose Your Topic: Select one of the four rule of law principles
- Create Your Video: 30-60 seconds explaining your chosen principle
- Prepare Submission: Gather required forms and school verification
- Submit Online: Use our submission portal
- Wait for Results: Winners announced after judging period
Judging Process
- Initial Review: Rule of Law Task Force subcommittee reviews all submissions for compliance and quality.
- Final Judging: CBA Executive Council members evaluate top 5 entries and select winners.
- Timeline: Two-week judging period following submission deadline.
Judging Criteria
- Message clarity and accuracy
- Educational impact
- Creativity and engagement
- Understanding of rule of law principles
- Here is a link to the 2025 High School Rule of Law winning entry by Ishika Singh
Video Creation Tips
- Keep your message simple and clear
- Use examples your audience can relate to
- Consider your audience - what would help them understand?
- Don't worry about perfect production - focus on your message
Contest Timeline
- Video submission Period: March 1-April 15, 2026
- Judging Period (2 weeks)
- Winner Announcement: May 1st
Questions?
Contact Amy Sreenen, Director of Sections & Committees at [email protected]
About the Rule of Law Task Force
The Colorado Bar Association's Rule of Law Task Force was formed to promote understanding of democratic principles and judicial independence throughout Colorado. This contest represents our commitment to educating the next generation about the foundations of our legal system.
Contest Sponsors
Interested in sponsoring? Contact us at a[email protected] to learn about sponsorship opportunities.