About the Law School

A Different Kind of Lawyer

“You will know the same law, are charged with maintaining the same ethical standards, and will be entering the same kinds of legal jobs as your peers across the country. But if you can keep in mind that your fundamental purpose in life is not to be a lawyer, but to know, love, and serve God, you truly will be a different kind of lawyer.”
—Excerpt from Amy Barrett’s Professor of the Year Commencement Speech > Read More

History & Mission

Founded in 1869, the Notre Dame Law School is the oldest Roman Catholic Law School in the nation. Embracing the life of the mind and the wisdom of the heart, the Notre Dame Law School stands in two ancient traditions: the English and American tradition of common law based on court decisions, customs, and common usages; and the Catholic tradition, which brings specific spiritual and moral values to bear upon daily life and legal judgments. > Read More

News

Three faculty members released books this fall (2008); Chief Justice of the United States John Roberts spoke to faculty, staff, and students about his life and career; and the Law School received a $5 million matching gift to help finance fellowships for more students. Our faculty regularly contribute scholarship in the top law reviews, and are sought out by reporters to serve as public intellectuals on topics of the day. There is a lot going on at Notre Dame Law School. > All News

Law School Expansion

In January 2009, Notre Dame Law School faculty, students and staff moved into the Eck Hall of Law, a new building that combines the University’s storied charm and tradition with cutting-edge technology and significantly more space. After completion of this construction, the beautiful, gothic structure that has been home to the Law School since the 1930s will be renovated to house an expanded Kresge Law Library and some administrative offices. Connected by a covered walkway and a chapel and commons area above, the new facility will capture the Law School’s commitment to shaping the minds, hearts, and souls of the next generation of Notre Dame lawyers. > Read More