2026 Rhode Island Law Day
On Rhode Island Law Day, thousands of Rhode Island students, teachers, judges and lawyers share important, timely and lively law related education lessons. This year’s Rhode Island Law Day is Friday, May 1, 2026. Rhode Island Law Day classroom program lessons are open to all public, independent, private, and parochial Rhode Island middle and upper schools’ 7th to 12th grade classes, and feature in-school, classroom period participation of a Rhode Island judge and lawyer team. To promote active student participation and the best possible educational experience, the Rhode Island Law Day classroom program topic choice focuses on an issue of direct relevance to students.
The registration deadline for the 2026 Rhode Island Law Day Classroom Programs is Friday, February 6, 2026.
2026 Law Day Theme
The Rule of Law and the American Dream
The rule of law—the principle that no one is above the law—protects the rights and freedoms that allow individuals to live their lives freely and pursue their aspirations. The Rhode Island Law Day Committee encourages all Rhode Islanders to reflect on how the rule of law ensures that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their goals and contribute to a fair and just society.
Online Background and Activity Information
To support Law Day classroom visits, the Rhode Island Bar Association has created program guides for middle and high school students that explore the rule of law and how it applies to everyday life. Additional resources and activities are available through the American Bar Association.
High School Program Guide
Middle School Program Guide
ABA Law Day Resources
Hon. Francis J. Darigan, Jr. RI Law Day Essay Contest
The Rhode Island Judiciary, the Rhode Island Bar Association, and the Rhode Island Police Chief’s Association are pleased to announce the 22nd annual 2026 Hon. Francis J. Darigan Jr. Rhode Island Law Day Essay Contest. The Contest is open to all Rhode Island 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students attending school in Rhode Island, but only to those grades. Through the generosity of the Rhode Island Bar Association, the Rhode Island Bar Foundation, and the Rhode Island Police Chiefs' Association, the winning essay author will receive a $2000 Scholastic Award and an engraved trophy cup. The winner’s school receives a permanent plaque and the annual Law Day Essay Award Trophy to display until the next Contest. The second-place winner will receive a $500 scholastic award generously donated by the Edward P. Gallogly Family Law Inn of Court and the Rhode Island Bar Foundation. The third-place winner will be recognized with a $100 scholastic award donated by the Rhode Island Bar Association.
Questions?
For more information, please contact:
Allison Baker
LRE Coordinator
📞 401-421-5740
📧 abaker@ribar.com