Contest Overview

• Who Can Enter: All Colorado residents
• Video Length: 30-60 seconds
• Submission Window: June 1 through July 31, 2026
• Total Prizes: $4,000: $2,500 1st prize, $1,500 2nd 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.
• The Right to Counsel - The government cannot deny your choice of lawyer.

Your Target Audience

Create content for non-legal professionals

• Speak to Gen Alpha, Gen Z/iGen, Millennials, 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 following the end of your video. We’re judging primarily on message clarity and educational impact, not production value.

Followship Awards

• 1st Place: $2,500
• 2nd Place: $1,500

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 long
• Focus on one or more of the five 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, educational impact, and viewer engagement

Submission Requirements

• Submit through this CBA website form
• Individual or group submissions only (prizes to be shared among group members)
• Digital release forms must be agreed to (included in submission form)
• One submission per person or group

How to Enter

1. Choose Your Topic: Select one or more of the five rule of law principles
2. Create Your Video: 30-60 seconds explaining your chosen principle (s)
3. Submit Online: Use our submission portal
4. 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 2 winners.
• Timeline: Three-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 and the link to the 2026 College Rule of Law winning entry by Louis Nicholas Lerner.

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: June 1-July 31, 2026
• Judging Period (3 weeks)
• Winner Announcement: Late August

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.