FACTS ABOUT LAW DAY

What Is Law Day?

A national day set aside to celebrate the rule of law. Law Day underscores how law and the legal process have contributed to the freedoms that all Americans share.

How Did Law Day Begin?

• 1957: America Bar Association (ABA) President Charles S. Rhyne, a Washington, D.C. attorney, envisions a special day for celebrating our legal system.

• 1958: President Dwight D. Eisenhower establishes Law Day to strengthen our great heritage of liberty, justice, and equality under law.

• 1961: May 1 is designated by joint resolution of Congress as the official date for celebrating Law Day.

When Is Law Day Celebrated?

May 1 is the official date, but in fact, celebrations often take place either before or after that date. Some bar associations celebrate Law Week. Law Day also provides an opportunity to recognize the role of courts in this democracy and the importance of jury service to maintaining the integrity of the courts.

How Is Law Day Celebrated?

Law Day programs are designed to help people understand how law keeps us free and how our legal system strives to achieve justice. Thousands of Law Day programs are conducted each year for youth and adults across the country.