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The American Bar Association

The ABA was founded in 1878 on a commitment to set the legal and ethical foundation for the American nation. Today, it exists as a membership organization and stands committed to its mission of defending liberty and pursuing justice.

The American Bar Association is #ForAll

The American Bar Association works tirelessly to uphold the ideals of liberty and justice #ForAll.

Advocate for the Profession

The ABA works to promote the best quality legal education, competence, ethical conduct and professionalism, and pro bono and public service work in the legal profession.

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Eliminate Bias & Enhance Diversity

The ABA maintains a longstanding commitment to diversity by eliminating bias and enhancing inclusion in the Association, the legal profession and the justice system.

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Serve Our Members

The organization aims to provide benefits, programs and services which promote members' professional growth and quality of life.

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Advance the Rule of Law

Increase public understanding of and respect for the rule of law, the legal process, and the role of the legal profession at home and throughout the world.

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ABA History

Founded in 1878, the ABA is committed to advancing the rule of law across the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, law school accreditation, model ethics codes and more.

1921

ABA Standards for Legal Education

The ABA adopts standards for legal education, which leads, in 1952, to law school accreditation.

1957

ABA President Charles Rhyne Envisions National Law Day

At Rhyne’s urging, President Eisenhower proclaims first national Law Day for May 1, 1958.

1974

ABA Key in Creating Legal Services Corporation

The ABA is instrumental in passage of federal legislation to create the Legal Services Corporation.

1990

Advancing Rule of Law Around the World

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the ABA establishes what will become the Rule of Law Initiative.

2015

First African-American Woman President.

Paulette Brown of New Jersey becomes the first African-American woman to serve as president of the ABA.

2023

Mary Smith begins service as first Native American woman ABA president.

ABA Member Groups

Find the resources you need including, practice-specific committees, top-tier CLE, peer-reviewed scholarly journals, curated content and more when you join a Section, Division or Forum.

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ABA Leadership

The ABA Leadership team includes Officers, the Board of Governors, the House of Delegates, and Senior Officials. Learn more about the dedicated member leaders here.

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Making a Difference

The ABA Fund for Justice and Education.

The ABA Fund for Justice and Education is a 501(c)(3) charitable fund that supports the public service and educational programs of the American Bar Association.

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ABA Member Directory

Use the directory to connect with other members across the ABA and build your professional community.

Contact the ABA

Need help, have a question or comment, or just looking for our mailing address? You can find all that on our contact page.