Third Judicial Circuit Judges distribute pocket-sized Declaration of Independence, Constitution to public for Fourth of July

By Editor | July 3, 2026 |

Associate Judges John Hackett, left, and Emily Nielsen distributed copies of the Declaration of Independence this week. (submitted photo)

By Tribune Staff • Chief Judge Christopher Threlkeld announced today that the Third Judicial Circuit recently distributed pocket-sized copies of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution to members of the public at the Madison County Courthouse and the Criminal Justice Center. On July 1, 2026, Judges and staff presented copies to litigants, lawyers and others throughout the day at both of its Madison County buildings in honor of the coming Fourth of July holiday.

“The Circuit Court is excited to celebrate the 250th birthday of our nation by sharing copies our founding documents with the people we serve,” said Threlkeld.

For more than 50 years, the Illinois Judges Association has worked to protect the interests of an independent judiciary by educating the public and students. This year, IJA’s Media Committee commemorated the historic anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by preparing special edition, pocket-sized copies and selecting judicial circuits throughout Illinois to help distribute directly to the public.

Madison County Circuit Judge Patrick King, who is assigned to the civil division, was among the judges passing out copies in the lobby of the Madison County Courthouse. “The Declaration of Independence and US Constitution form the basis for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans and for the rule of law,” he said.

Associate Judge Emily Nielsen distributed copies at the Criminal Justice Center, the courthouse where felony criminal charges are handled and where Judge Nielsen is assigned.

“These documents, especially the United States Constitution, set the foundation for the American criminal justice system, both guiding prosecutions and protecting the rights of the accused,” she stated.

Chief Judge Threlkeld added, “We are very grateful to the Illinois Judges Association for selecting the Third Judicial Circuit to participate in this statewide effort and for the privilege of serving the public as members of the judiciary.”