Law Related Education Programs
Bringing the law into classrooms and communities across Rhode Island
The Rhode Island Bar Association’s Law Related Education (LRE) programs connect schools and community organizations with legal professionals who are passionate about civic education and public service. These free programs are designed to help Rhode Islanders of all ages better understand their rights, responsibilities, and the role of law in everyday life.
Whether you're a teacher looking to enhance your classroom lesson or a community group interested in learning about a specific area of the law, our programs offer an opportunity to engage directly with volunteer attorneys who can help make complex legal topics clear, relatable, and relevant.
Teachers can click below to visit our Law Day page to learn more and register for this year’s program scheduled on Friday, May 1, 2026!
Lawyers in the Classroom Legal learning experiences tailored for Rhode Island students
Our Lawyers in the Classroom program pairs volunteer attorneys with classrooms across Rhode Island, serving students from grades 4 through 12. This program is available year-round and is designed to support educators by offering guest speakers who can help students explore legal concepts in a meaningful way.
Teachers may request a classroom visit to supplement lessons on government, history, current events, or any topic with a legal component. We work directly with each teacher to coordinate the visit and match a speaker to the requested subject.
Common topics include:
- Criminal and Civil Law
- Constitutional Law and the Bill of Rights
- Family Law and Juvenile Justice
- Employment Law and Workers’ Rights
- Environmental, Health, and Consumer Law
- Real Estate and Business Law
- Title VII and student protections
Program details:
- Presentations are typically one class period (about 45–60 minutes)
- Most visits include a short presentation followed by time for student questions
- Attorneys are matched based on topic and school location
- RIBA staff are available to help coordinate and provide classroom resources
Interested in bringing a lawyer to your classroom?
Click the link below to fill out a short request form.
Request a Lawyer for Your Classroom
Constitution Day Exploring the Constitution’s role in our daily lives
Each fall, the Rhode Island Bar Association partners with the Rhode Island Judiciary to bring Constitution Day programs to middle and high school classrooms. Attorneys and judges lead interactive lessons and discussions that help students connect constitutional principles to current issues and everyday experiences.
Program Details:
- Typically offered in October or November
- Designed for middle and high school students
- Interactive lessons and classroom materials provided
Program registration for 2025 has closed.
Please check back next fall for participation opportunities.
Storytime with Lawyers Introducing young learners to fairness, rules, and justice
Rhode Island attorneys visit elementary schools to read books with civic or legal themes. Through storytelling and discussion, students gain an early understanding of fairness and the role of law in everyday life.
Program details:
- Designed for students in Kindergarten through 3rd Grade
- Sessions are typically brief and flexible to fit class schedules
- Offered primarily during National Reading Week (the first week of March), with requests accepted on a case-by-case basis throughout the year
- Attorneys bring age-appropriate books and discussion prompts
Interested in scheduling a storytime?
Please check back in late March for a link to our request form.
Shadow a Lawyer Career exploration opportunities for Rhode Island students
The Shadow a Lawyer program gives high school students the chance to spend a day with a Rhode Island attorney and experience the legal profession firsthand. Students may observe court proceedings, client meetings, or daily office work to learn about different career paths in law.
Program details:
- Designed for high school students
- Visits are coordinated based on student interests and attorney availability
- Students are encouraged to note the area of law they’re most interested in
- Opportunities available throughout the school year
Ready to see what it’s like to be a lawyer for a day?
Click below to complete the Shadow a Lawyer request form and be paired with an attorney for a one-day visit.
Request a Visit
Speakers Bureau Legal education for community groups and nonprofits
Our Speakers Bureau connects civic and nonprofit organizations with volunteer attorneys who can present on a variety of legal topics. These free presentations are ideal for senior centers, libraries, community centers, and local clubs interested in learning more about the law and how it affects their daily lives.
Speakers are available on a range of issues and can tailor their presentation to suit your audience’s interests and needs. Presentations are typically scheduled throughout the year at a time that works best for your group.
Examples of topics:
- Understanding Your Rights in the Workplace
- Civil Rights and Anti-Discrimination Laws
- Planning for the Future: Wills, Trusts, and Elder Law
- Real Estate and Housing Issues
- Navigating the Health Care System
- Consumer Protection and Credit Law
Program details:
- Presentations typically last about one hour, with time for Q&A
- We will work with you to find a speaker and topic that fits your group
- All programs are free of charge
Want to schedule a speaker for your group?
Click the link below to fill out a request form.
Request a Speaker for Your Organization
Questions?
For more information, please contact:
Allison Baker
Programs Coordinator
📞 401-421-5740
📧 abaker@ribar.com