Incoming President’s Message by Mary V. York

The Critical Role of Civics Education and the Opportunity for Idaho Attorneys to Lead

girl sitting on legal scales, man and boy point to her, images of hands raised and books stacked

As I step into the role of President of the Idaho State Bar, I am continually impressed and humbled by the dedication and excellence of our legal community. Attorneys in Idaho consistently demonstrate their commitment to justice and service, not only in their practices but also in their contributions to our communities and to society at large. One area where our profession has a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to make an enduring impact is in the realm of civics education.

Why Civics Education Matters

Civics education is foundational to the preservation of our democratic ideals and the rule of law.[i] In fact, Chief Justice John Roberts in his recent 2024 Year End Report on the Federal Judiciary, discusses the increased attacks on the judiciary and the rule of law and how civic education is one of the important ways to combat these threats.[ii] Unfortunately, recent surveys, such as the 2024 edition of the Annenberg Public Policy Center’s Constitution Day Civics Survey,[iii] reveal troubling trends. A significant portion of Americans cannot name the three branches of government or articulate the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. This knowledge gap undermines public confidence in institutions and weakens our shared commitment to democratic principles.[iv]

As lawyers, we are not only advocates for our clients but also stewards of justice and defenders of the rule of law. The Idaho Rules of Professional Conduct remind us of our duty to cultivate knowledge of the law and foster an understanding and confidence in the legal system.[v] By promoting civics education, we can help address misconceptions, bridge divides, and empower future generations with the tools they need to be informed, engaged citizens.

Opportunities for Attorneys to Get Involved[vi]

Attorneys are uniquely positioned to contribute to civics education, and there are many programs and opportunities through which we can make a difference:

1. Attorneys for Civic Education (“ACE”). Founded in Idaho in 2013, ACE works to enhance and sustain civics education in schools. Attorneys can volunteer as speakers, mentors, or contributors to programs designed to teach students about the Constitution, the justice system, and the Rule of Law.

2. Mock Trial Competitions. The Idaho Law Foundation sponsors mock trial competitions, where students simulate real court cases. Attorneys can serve as mentors, coaches, or judges, helping students gain first-hand experience in legal proceedings and critical thinking.

3. Constitution Day Activities. Each year on September 17, schools and organizations host events to commemorate the signing of the U.S. Constitution. Events are coordinated by the Idaho Law Foundation, Attorneys for Civic Education, and public schools. Attorneys can volunteer to deliver presentations, lead discussions, or assist in organizing interactive activities for students.

4. Idaho Citizen’s Law Academy and ABA Civics and Law Academy. The Citizen’s Law Academy is a free adult education program that aims to help participants understand the laws and their rights under the law, learn about the legal profession and the judicial system, and appreciate attorneys’ public service and pro bono work.  Also, the American Bar Association offers programs that connect lawyers with schools to teach students about the Constitution, legal processes, and the importance of civic engagement. Idaho attorneys can access these resources to enhance their outreach efforts.

5. Local School Partnerships. Many schools are eager to collaborate with professionals to provide real-world insights. Attorneys can reach out to schools in their communities to offer guest lectures, workshops, or mentorship in civics and law-related topics.

6. Public Speaking and Community Events. Beyond schools, attorneys can participate in public forums, community events, or civic organizations to educate adults about their rights and responsibilities as citizens.

A Call to Action

I encourage each of you to consider how you can contribute to this critical endeavor. Whether through formal programs like ACE and mock trials, or informal conversations with students and neighbors, every effort matters.[vii] Your expertise, involvement, and passion can inspire a deeper appreciation for the law and help build a more informed, resilient society.

The challenges we face as a nation—declining trust in institutions, political polarization, and misinformation—are daunting but not insurmountable. Civics education is a powerful tool to confront these issues, and as attorneys, we are uniquely equipped to lead the charge. Let us take advantage of these opportunities to fulfill our professional obligations and leave a legacy that strengthens both our communities and our democracy.

Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that the principles of justice and the rule of law continue to thrive in Idaho and beyond.

Headshot of Mary York

Mary V. York is a litigation partner at Holland & Hart who has nearly 30 years of experience representing clients in condemnation cases, real estate disputes, and commercial litigation. In her spare time, Mary enjoys hiking, mountain biking, wake-surfing, cooking, and spending time with her family. Mary currently serves as the President of the Idaho State Bar Board of Commissioners, representing the Fourth District.


[i] See, 2024 Year End Report on the Federal Judiciary (Dec. 31, 2024), https://www.supremecourt.gov/publicinfo/year-end/2024year-endreport.pdf.

[ii] Id.

[iii] https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/political-communication/civics-knowledge-survey/.

[iv] Id.

[v] I.R.P.C. Preamble, ¶6 (“As a member of a learned profession, a lawyer should cultivate knowledge of the law beyond its use for clients, employ that knowledge in reform of the law and work to strengthen legal education. In addition, a lawyer should further the public’s understanding of and confidence in the rule of law and the justice system because legal institutions in a constitutional democracy depend on popular participation and support to maintain their authority.”).

[vi] While this article focuses on opportunities to participate in civic education, I encourage you to take a look at last month’s edition of The Advocate where out-going Bar President, Jillian Caires noted more than a dozen opportunities for attorneys to get involved in Bar-related activities. See Jillian H. Caires, Resolve to Get Involve in 2025, Outgoing President’s Message, 68 The Advocate 6 (2025).

[vii] For more information about the wealth of opportunities to get involved in civic education, contact Carey Shoufler, Development & Law Related Education Director, for the Idaho Law Foundation, at cshoufler@isb.idaho.gov or (208) 334-4500.