Summary
Litigated in federal court against government pressure on law firms. Very active on judicial independence and voting rights. Diversity record contested after its accrediting council repealed its law school diversity standard in September 2026.
Leadership in period: Michelle A. Behnke served until 4 August 2026; Barbara J. Howard then took office, with Laura V. Farber elected president-elect.
Key developments
- The ABA pursued litigation over the federal government's law-firm intimidation policy.
- Its 2026 meetings addressed judicial independence, judges' safety, immigration, and responsible AI use.
- The Accreditation Council voted to repeal Standard 206; the report records the House of Delegates' opposing vote and the council's separate role.
Criterion ratings
Rule of Law and Judicial Independence
Strong
Access to Justice
Moderate
Governance and Transparency
Strong
Professional Standards and Education
Moderate
Diversity and Inclusion
Moderate
Assessment
The ABA was the most visible voluntary bar body in the common-law world on rule-of-law litigation this year. The repeal of Standard 206 reflects serious external regulatory pressure and internal disagreement.
Key sources
- https://www.americanbar.org/news/abanews/aba-news-archives/2025/06/aba-files-suit-to-halt-govt-intimidation/
- https://www.americanbar.org/news/abanews/aba-news-archives/2026/08/barbara-howard-addresses-aba-hod/
- https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/administrative/legal_education_and_admissions_to_the_bar/2026/2026-august-standard-206-special-session-announcement.pdf