History of Law Day

1957

American Bar Association 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. This program continues today and has grown to many countries around the globe.

When is Law Day Celebrated?

May 1 is the official date for Law Day, but many celebrations take place the week(s) before or after that date. Some organizations celebrate a Law Week or Law Month in April or May.

Who Conducts Law Day Programs?

Law Day programs are conducted by bar groups, courts, schools, youth groups, and community organizations, to name a few. Any person or group that wants to spread the important message of the rule of law and its critical role in society may put on a program.

Why is a Theme Selected

An annual theme is chosen to spotlight a particular aspect of law or the legal process and its impact on our daily lives.

How is Law Day Celebrated?

Thousands of Law Day programs are conducted each year for youth and adults across the country. In addition, the president of the United States has issued a Law Day proclamation recognizing the importance of the rule of law every year since 1958.

American Bar Association TM American Bar Association

What is Law Day?

Past Themes & Related Resources