What is Law Day?
Law Day, held annually on May 1, is a national day set aside to celebrate the rule of law. Law Day underscores how law and the legal process contribute to the freedoms that all Americans share. Law Day also provides an
opportunity to recognize the role of courts in democracy and the importance of jury service to maintaining the integrity of the courts.
HOW DID LAW DAY BEGIN?
1957: American Bar Association (ABA) President Charles S. Rhyne
envisioned a special day for celebrating our legal system.
1958: President Dwight D. Eisenhower established Law Day as a day
of national dedication to the principles of government under law.
1961: Congress designated May 1 as the official date for celebrating
Law Day.
When is Law Day celebrated?
May 1 is the official date, but many celebrations take place either
before or after that date. Some organizations celebrate a Law Week or Law Month.
How is Law Day celebrated?
Law Day programs are designed to help people better understand how law protects liberty and how the legal system strives to achieve justice.
Thousands of Law Day programs are conducted each year for youth and adults across the country. In addition, every year since 1958, the president of the United States has issued a Law Day proclamation recognizing the importance of the rule of law.
Why is a theme selected?
A theme is chosen to provide an opportunity to spotlight a particular aspect of law or the legal process—often an anniversary or timely topic—and its impact on people’s lives.
Who conducts Law Day programs?
Law Day programs are conducted by bar groups, courts, schools, youth groups, and community organizations, to name a few. But any person or group that wants to spread the important message about the rule of law and its critical role in society may hold a program.
Are additional Law Day resources available?
Yes! Other helpful resources are available
on the Law Day website at www.lawday.org. Visit
often between January and May for updates on Law Day activities. You may also sign up for monthly email notifications.
Who may I contact with Law Day questions?
Chandra Fitzpatrick, Senior Outreach Manager for the
ABA Division for Public Education.
Chandra can be reached at 312.988.5720
or at chandra.fitzpatrick@americanbar.org