Key Takeaways

  • The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on August 21, 1878, in Saratoga Springs, New York.
  • It was created to establish a national code of ethics and provide a platform for lawyers to address legal issues collectively.
  • The ABA played a central role in the development of model rules of professional conduct and accreditation of law schools.
  • Membership is voluntary, but the ABA still represents a significant portion of the legal profession in the U.S.
  • The ABA's influence extends to international legal communities and policy reforms.The Evolution of the American Bar Association

The Evolution of the American Bar Association

The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on August 21, 1878, in Saratoga Springs, New York, by 100 lawyers from 21 states. The legal profession as we know it today barely existed at that time. Lawyers were generally sole practitioners who trained under a system of apprenticeship.

At that time, no national code of ethics existed, nor did a national organization to serve as a forum for discussion of the increasingly intricate issues involved in legal practice.

The original ABA constitution, which is still substantially the charter of the Association, defined the purpose of the ABA as being for "the advancement of the science of jurisprudence, the promotion of the administration of justice and a uniformity of legislation throughout the country...."

Today, the stated mission of the American Bar Association is "to be the national representative of the legal profession, serving the public and the profession by promoting justice, professional excellence and respect for the law."

Who Founded the ABA and Where

The ABA was founded by 100 lawyers from 21 states who convened in Saratoga Springs, New York. These founding members recognized the pressing need for a national organization that could guide the development of legal standards and elevate the profession. Among the attendees were prominent attorneys and legal reform advocates, including individuals who later contributed to shaping legal education and jurisprudence in the U.S. The selection of Saratoga Springs for the inaugural meeting was symbolic of the association's national intent—far from any single state capital or legal epicenter.

Founding Purpose and Early Objectives

The American Bar Association was established to address growing concerns over the inconsistency and lack of regulation in the legal profession. At the time, attorneys were licensed and governed solely by their respective states, with no standardized ethical or professional guidelines. The ABA sought to unify the profession by developing a national code of ethics, promoting higher standards of legal practice, and facilitating discussions among attorneys from different jurisdictions. This goal was particularly urgent in the post-Civil War period, as the country faced complex legal challenges across newly reconstructed states.

The Goals of the ABA

The 11 goals of the ABA are to:

  • Promote improvement in the American system of justice.
  • Promote meaningful access to legal representation and the American system of justice for all persons regardless of their economic or social condition.
  • Provide ongoing leadership in improving the law to serve the changing needs of society.
  • Increase public understanding of and respect for the law, the legal process and the role of the legal profession.
  • Achieve the highest standards of professionalism, competence, and ethical conduct.
  • Serve as the national representative of the legal profession.
  • Provide benefits, programs, and services that promote professional growth and enhance the quality of life of the members.
  • Advance the rule of law in the world.
  • Promote full and equal participation in the legal profession by minorities and women.
  • Preserve and enhance the ideals of the legal profession as a common calling and its dedication to public service.
  • Preserve the independence of the legal profession and the judiciary as fundamental to a free society.

The ABA Today

The ABA's influence today stems from both the number and diversity of its membership. ABA members represent approximately half of all lawyers in the United States. In addition, the Law Student Division has more than 33,000 members.

ABA membership is open to lawyers admitted to practice and in good standing before the bar of any state or territory of the United States.

Eligible to join the ABA as associates are non-lawyer judges, federal court executives, bar association executives, law school educators, criminal justice professionals, members of administrative agencies, industrial organization economists, law office administrators, legal assistants, law librarians and members of Association-approved law school boards of visitors. Members of the legal profession in other nations who have not been admitted to the practice of law in the United States can become international associates.

About 50,000 lawyers joined the Association in the last year.

Membership and Global Reach

Although ABA membership is voluntary, its influence is substantial. Around half of practicing attorneys in the U.S. are members, along with thousands of judges, law students, and legal professionals. Membership is open to lawyers in good standing and many affiliated professionals, such as legal educators and law librarians.

In addition to its national scope, the ABA has extended its reach internationally. Through its Rule of Law Initiative, the ABA works to strengthen justice systems around the world, promote human rights, and support democratic development. This global presence highlights the ABA’s broader commitment to legal excellence beyond U.S. borders.

Influence on Law and Legal Education

Over the decades, the ABA has significantly shaped legal education and practice in the United States. It is responsible for accrediting law schools across the country, ensuring consistency in legal education standards. Additionally, the ABA publishes the Model Rules of Professional Conduct, which serve as the foundation for attorney ethics codes in most U.S. jurisdictions. These efforts have helped solidify the ABA's role in promoting ethical behavior and professional responsibility among lawyers.

The ABA also provides legal resources, continuing education, and policy advocacy, and it plays a consultative role in judicial nominations and reform. Through these initiatives, the organization continues to influence both domestic and international legal standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When was the ABA founded? The American Bar Association was founded on August 21, 1878, in Saratoga Springs, New York.

2. Why was the ABA created? It was formed to establish a national code of ethics for lawyers and provide a unified platform for discussing legal issues across states.

3. Is ABA membership required to practice law? No, membership is voluntary. Lawyers are regulated by state bar associations, but many choose to join the ABA for its resources and influence.

4. How does the ABA influence legal education? The ABA accredits law schools and develops model rules of professional conduct that guide attorney ethics nationwide.

5. Does the ABA operate internationally? Yes, through its Rule of Law Initiative, the ABA supports legal reforms and justice systems in other countries.

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