Somerset County Bar Foundation

The Somerset County Bar Foundation was established in 1969 by the Board of Trustees of the Somerset County Bar Association to expand the legal community’s ability to serve the public through education, charitable giving, and community outreach.

As a separate nonprofit organization, the Foundation is dedicated to supporting programs and initiatives that promote access to justice, public understanding of the law, and service to the residents of Somerset County and beyond.

Governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees, the Foundation raises and distributes funds to local nonprofit organizations whose missions align with the law and the administration of justice. The Foundation also awards scholarships to deserving New Jersey law students, helping to support the next generation of legal professionals.

The Foundation’s work is made possible through the generosity and involvement of attorneys, judges, businesses, and community members. Volunteers play a vital role in our fundraising efforts, special events, and charitable initiatives throughout the year.

To learn more about the Somerset County Bar Foundation or to explore volunteer opportunities, please contact the Foundation’s Executive Director, Kelly Bender (Somersetcountybar@gmail.com)

The Legal Runaround 5k

The Vincent J. Apruzzese High School Mock Trial Competition

The Legal Runaround 5k

The Somerset County Bar Foundation’s annual Legal Runaround is one of its signature fundraising events, held each year on the Thursday before Memorial Day Weekend. The event features a USATF-sanctioned 5K run, a family-friendly 3K walk, and children’s dashes, attracting participants of all ages from throughout the community.

Since its inception in 2005, the Legal Runaround has raised thousands of dollars to support local nonprofit organizations and charitable initiatives throughout Somerset County. The event also celebrates community involvement through special recognitions, including the “Healthiest Town” Award and the “School Spirit” Award.

Whether running, walking, volunteering, or sponsoring, participants play an important role in supporting the Foundation’s mission of service, education, and community outreach.

Our Beneficiaries

The Vincent J. Apruzzese High School Mock Trial Competition

The Legal Runaround 5k

Through its charitable giving programs, the Somerset County Bar Foundation has proudly supported numerous local nonprofit organizations that make a meaningful impact throughout our community.

Past recipients of Foundation funding include Legal Services of Northwest Jersey, Middle Earth, Children's Hope Initiative, Project D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Alternatives, Inc., Somerset Treatment Services, Literacy Volunteers of America, Orators, Inc., and Community Hope, Inc., Steps Together, The Meghan Rose Bradley Foundation, and Children's Hope Initiative.

The Vincent J. Apruzzese High School Mock Trial Competition

The Vincent J. Apruzzese High School Mock Trial Competition is sponsored by the New Jersey State Bar Foundation in cooperation with the Somerset County Bar Foundation. Held annually at the Somerset County Courthouse, this program gives local high school students the opportunity to step into the roles of attorneys, witnesses, and jurors while learning firsthand how the legal system works.

Each year, students begin preparing in the fall for a new mock trial case. The Somerset County competition takes place in January, with the county winner advancing to regional rounds and, if successful, the New Jersey State Finals. The state champion then has the opportunity to compete in the National Mock Trial Championship.

The program is designed to help students better understand the American justice system, court procedures, legal ethics, and the importance of good citizenship. Through preparation and competition, students strengthen valuable life skills including public speaking, critical thinking, reading, writing, listening, teamwork, and leadership.

While the competition is exciting, the true purpose is not simply to win. The Mock Trial program brings the law to life and helps students develop a deeper appreciation for justice, democracy, and civic responsibility. In that spirit, every student who participates gains something meaningful from the experience.

Somerset County Bar Foundation