American Bar Foundation

The American Bar Foundation (ABF) is an independent, nonprofit national research institute established in 1952. We are committed to advancing justice through interdisciplinary research that not only explores the law but also its implications in society. Our work encompasses various aspects of the legal process, aiming to generate empirical insights that inform public policy, legal practice, and societal understandings of legal issues. As a thriving research center, we conduct groundbreaking studies that bring together scholars, practitioners, and the community to foster rich discussions around crucial legal topics.

Our projects fit into three main areas: Learning and Practicing Law, Protecting Rights and Accessing Justice, and Making and Implementing Law. This triad emphasizes our belief in the necessity of a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape. We pride ourselves on our commitment to empirical research that shapes the law, enhances access to justice, and influences societal change. Our statewide and national collaborations underscore our objective to ensure that our findings and insights are accessible and actionable for a broader audience. Through our various fellowship programs, we also nurture the next generation of legal scholars, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to the discourse surrounding law and society.