From Gilded Age Chicago to the digital frontier — one association has stood at the crossroads of law, society, and change.
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1874
The Association is Born
A group of Chicago's leading attorneys convene to establish the Chicago Bar Association, creating a unified voice for the legal profession in a rapidly growing city recovering from the Great Fire.
Founded
1892
Women at the Bar
The CBA becomes one of the first metropolitan bar associations to formally recognize women attorneys, setting a precedent for inclusion that would define the organization for generations.
Inclusion
1920s
Prohibition & Legal Order
As Chicago became synonymous with Prohibition-era crime, CBA attorneys played a critical role defending civil liberties and upholding the rule of law during one of America's most turbulent decades.
Resilience
1960s
Civil Rights & Equal Justice
CBA members stood on the front lines of the Civil Rights movement, providing pro bono representation and advocating for landmark legislation that would reshape American law and society.
Justice
1990
A Home of Our Own
The CBA moves into its landmark 16-story building at 321 S. Plymouth Court, designed by Stanley Tigerman and Margaret McCurry — a permanent home in Chicago's South Loop for the legal community.
Milestone
2000s
The Digital Age of Law
The CBA embraces technology, expanding continuing legal education into digital formats and building online resources that help 22,000 members stay ahead of a rapidly evolving legal landscape.
Innovation
Today
150 Years Strong
With 22,000 members, 400+ annual events, and a $7M operating budget, the Chicago Bar Association remains the most vital force in Illinois law — connecting, educating, and advocating for justice every single day.
Present
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