As the largest legal organization in Indiana, the Indiana State Bar Association empowers its members (lawyers, judges, paralegals, law librarians, law students and court administrators) to thrive professionally and personally. It works to find solutions to members’ professional challenges, connect them with others in the profession across the state, and advocate on behalf of the profession. Click here to learn more about ISBA membership.
 
ISBA is a voluntary bar—unlike many other states with mandatory bars—meaning licensed attorneys are not required to be members. Subsequently, the association does not oversee attorney Continuing Legal Education (CLE), discipline, or licensing. The Indiana Supreme Court oversees these responsibilities, allowing the ISBA to act as an independent voice of its members.
 
The ISBA is governed by members elected to its House of Delegates, Board of Governors, and Executive Committee. An Executive Director and staff execute administrative duties in accordance with ISBA’s governance.

History

The ISBA was founded 1896 in the hall of the Indiana House of Representatives with more than 100 lawyers present. Benjamin Harrison served as the Association's first president and remains the only two-term president in its history. Three years earlier he had concluded his service as the nation's 23rd president and returned to his law practice in Indiana.

Mission

To improve the administration of justice and promote public understanding of the legal system.

Vision

To serve and advocate on behalf of its members, their clients and the public interest as the independent voice of the legal profession.

Diversity Statement

The Indiana State Bar Association (ISBA) will integrate diverse perspectives into all aspects of its activities and into the fabric of the legal profession of this state. ISBA, engaging with lawyers and others within the legal profession from all backgrounds, strives to build a diverse pipeline to the legal profession, and to inform the broader legal community about issues surrounding diversity and inclusion. The ISBA takes affirmative steps to eliminate bias and enhance diversity to ensure that members of all backgrounds, identities, and circumstances are included in every level of the organization. This commitment is not only essential to the pursuit of our mission “to improve the administration of justice and promote public understanding of the legal system,” but it also strengthens our ability to address all of our members’ needs and the needs of those the ISBA's members serve and represent in our respective communities. 

Governance

The Indiana State Bar Association is led by a House of Delegates, Board of Governors, Executive Committee, and Executive Director. Click here to learn more about these roles and the people serving in them.

Contact Us

Click here to visit our staff directory.

Advertising & Sponsorships

ISBA offers opportunities for attorneys and relevant organizations to share their messages with the Indiana legal community. We work with you to customize your sponsorship package to help you achieve your marketing and financial goals, but mediums may include events, digital, and print.