1957
A celebration of our legal system.
American Bar Association president Charles S. Rhyne envisioned a special day for celebrating our legal system.
History of Law Day
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 provides an opportunity to understand how law and the legal process protect our liberty, strive to achieve justice, and contribute to the freedoms that all Americans share.
Past Themes & Related Resources
View past Law Day themes back to 1969, as well as access past planning guides, Dialogues for students, and the presidential proclamations archive.
1958
Introduction of Law Day
President Dwight D. Eisenhower established Law Day as a day of national dedication to the principles of government under law.
1961
May 1 as the official Law Day
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.
