Iowa Bar Blog

Iowa attorneys reaffirm oath in powerful Law Day ceremonies

Posted on: Jun 1, 2025

On May 1, more than 300 Iowa attorneys gathered throughout the state for a solemn and symbolic act: publicly reaffirming the Attorney’s Oath they first took upon joining the legal profession. Ceremonies were held in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.

Law Day, established by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958, is celebrated every May 1 to reflect on the importance of the rule of law in a free society. Sponsored by The Iowa State Bar Association (ISBA), this year’s event aimed to serve as a powerful reminder of lawyers' duty to uphold the Constitution, defend justice, and serve the public with integrity.

The Iowa Lawyer’s Oath includes promises to “support the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Iowa,” “maintain the respect due to the courts,” and “faithfully and ethically discharge the duties required of Iowa lawyers.” It also affirms a broader civic mission: to support “the cause of the defenseless or oppressed” and to represent the profession as one of justice, honor, civility, and service.

The oath reaffirmation ceremonies were among the many ceremonies held nationwide in conjunction with the National Law Day of Action, which featured similar events across the country to mark Law Day, an annual observance recognizing the role of law in the foundation of American democracy. The Des Moines oath reaffirmation, held at the Iowa Judicial Branch building and with more than 200 attendees, was administered by Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Christensen; former Chief Justice Marsha Ternus and ISBA President-elect Kathy Law each made introductory remarks. The Cedar Rapids oath reaffirmation, with approximately 90 lawyers and community members, was held later in the day on the steps of the Linn County Courthouse. Iowa Supreme Court Justice Dana Oxley administered the oath, accompanied by remarks from ISBA President Melvin O. Shaw and Vice President Stephanie Hinz.

“This is not just a ceremonial moment—it’s a public statement about our profession’s role in protecting democracy,” said Law in her keynote remarks before the oath ceremony. “Judges must be free to decide cases based on facts and law, not political pressure, personal gain, or fear of retribution. Judicial independence is what allows justice to be impartial, fair, and trusted.”

Law spoke passionately about the Constitution’s carefully balanced separation of powers. “Our system is built on three distinct branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—each designed to check and balance the other. The genius of this design lies not just in what each branch does, but in how they limit and protect one another. When that balance is lost, so too is the public’s faith in our system.”

She called on fellow attorneys to lead by example, emphasizing that “defending our legal institutions—even when it’s inconvenient or politically risky—is our shared responsibility, not just as attorneys, but as citizens.”

Prior to administering the oath at the Des Moines ceremony, Chief Justice Christensen encouraged attorneys to reflect not just on their professional obligations, but on their collective role in civic life.

“We have a duty to our clients, to the public, and to this honorable profession,” Chief Justice Christensen said. “All three branches of government work together for one common constituency: every Iowan. And all three are held together by our great Constitution.”

Chief Justice Christensen also emphasized the value of civic education. “I encourage you to share with your friends and family, especially children, the importance of fair and impartial courts and the lawyer’s role in protecting individual rights. I’m so proud to be an Iowa lawyer, and I’m even prouder to stand here with all of you on Law Day 2025.”

Many attendees shared personal reflections on the importance of the moment.

“It’s a good way to affirm the rule of law,” said Patty Notch of Iowa Legal Aid.

Erik Luthens and Saffin Parrish-Sams of PSL Law in West Des Moines attended, along with two law firm staff members. “We came to show respect for the rule of law and unity for the judiciary,” Luthens said. “They need to know we have their back.”

Craig Shives, a retired lawyer from Nyemaster Goode, described the gathering as “emotional and important.” He called the event “a symbol of standing up for the Constitution, civil rights, and democracy.”

As the ceremonies concluded, attendees lingered, shaking hands, taking photos, and reflecting on their shared commitment to justice. The legal community, they demonstrated, is more than a professional network; it is a pillar of democracy.

The ISBA sees public-facing initiatives like this as essential to building trust in the legal system. “The law is not just for lawyers,” said Law. “It affects all of us. Citizens should feel encouraged to engage with the system, know their rights, and trust that there are ethical professionals committed to justice.”

ISBA President Melvin O. Shaw shared, "Law Day was a highlight of the bar year for me. It's a reminder of why we keep showing up for Iowans, the legal profession, and The Iowa State Bar Association."