Law Day programs are being scheduled around the state on the 2006 theme of “Liberty Under Law: Separate Branches, Balanced Powers,” the 49th observance since 1958.

This year's theme calls attention to the fundamental importance of separation of powers in government. “It is at the heart of the U.S. Constitution and inspired emerging democracies worldwide,” said Michael S. Greco, president of the American Bar Association.

Greco added that the theme is timely, “given the current robust debate about the appropriate roles and responsibilities of the executive, legislative and judicial branches.”

National Law Day chair Peter J. Kalis urged the bench and bar to “Embrace the separation of powers as your heritage. Own it. Protect it. And on Law Day, celebrate it.”

Several bar associations with lawyer referral programs will join the Illinois State Bar Association in conducting Ask a Lawyer Day telephone call-ins from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29.

Participants include the Chicago Bar, DuPage County Bar, Kane County Bar, Lake County Bar, West Suburban Bar and Will County Bar.

In Chicago, the ISBA is partnering financially with the Cook County Bar Association and judiciary in special programs for about 200 selected high school students on Monday, May 1.

Morning presentations and tours in the Richard J. Daley Center will be followed by a luncheon at the Chicago Cultural Center. Judge John O. Steele, past president of the Illinois Judges Association will be the keynote speaker.

Among other Law Day events are the following, with additional details on page 24:

APRIL 27 (Thursday, 12 noon) WHEATON – DuPage County Bar Association annual Law Day luncheon and presentation of Liberty Bell and pro bono service awards; Cantigny Golf Club.

APRIL 28 (Friday) BELLEVILLE – St. Clair County Bar Association annual Law Day breakfast and award presentations; Fisher's Restaurant.

APRIL 28 (Friday, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.) NORTH RIVERSIDE – West Suburban Bar Association Law Day luncheon, speech by author Kevin Davis and award presentations; Riverside Country Club.

MAY 1 (Monday, 11 a.m.) SPRINGFIELD – Sangamon County Bar Association Law Day reception, 12 noon luncheon and recognition of 50-year members; Center for the Performing Arts.

MAY 2 (Tuesday) CHICAGO – Chicago Bar Association Law Day program, presentations to essay contest winners and performance by Barristers Big Band; Richard J. Daley Plaza.

MAY 5 (Friday, 12 noon) PEORIA – Peoria County Bar Association Law Day luncheon, presentation of pro bono and essay contest awards, recognition of 50-year members and speech by Congressman Ray Lahood; Hotel Pere Marquette.