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 equally the wealth of its heritage and a calling to address the needs of the contemporary world, Notre Dame Law School brings together centuries of Catholic intellectual and moral tradition, the historic methods and principles of the common law, and a thorough engagement with the reality of today’s legislative, regulatory, and global legal environment. At Notre Dame Law School, students and faculty of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and commitments are encouraged to cultivate both the life of the mind and the wisdom of the heart, to pursue their studies with a passion for the truth, and to dedicate their professional and personal lives to serve the good of all the human family.

News

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 Renovation and 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.

Then Biolchini Hall, the gothic structure that was home to the Law School since 1930, was completely renovated to house an expanded Kresge Law Library, and new class rooms, study rooms, and administrative offices. The renovation was completed in the summer of 2010 and the Hall was dedicated in October. The Hall is named in honor of the Biolchini family and Bob and Fran Biolchini, who made the lead donation that made the renovation possible.

The two buildings are connected by a covered walkway, a chapel, and a student commons area above. > Read More