American Bar Association

American Bar Association (ABA), voluntary national organization for members of the U.S. legal profession. Founded in 1878 at Saratoga Springs, N.Y., the group promotes the study and practice of jurisprudence and improvements in the administration of justice, and works to uphold the honor and standards of the profession. National headquarters are in Chicago. Its general policy-making body is made up of representatives from all state bar associations and acts through a board of governors. Standing committees study current legal issues. Official association publications include a legal yearbook and a monthly law journal.