State Bar of Texas, Austin
historic place
The State Bar of Texas, located in Austin, Travis County, holds a significant place in the state's legal history. While lawyers had statewide organizations since the 19th century, the formal State Bar of Texas was created on April 19, 1939. On that date, Governor W. Lee O'Daniel signed the State Bar Act, which mandated that all attorneys licensed to practice law in Texas become members. This act aimed to place all persons practicing law under uniform rules and regulations. The State Bar assists the Texas Supreme Court in overseeing attorneys and supports the administration of the legal system. Its headquarters, the Texas Law Center, has been at its current site in Austin since 1953. In recognition of its role, a historical marker was erected here in 1985 by the Texas Historical Commission. The State Bar of Texas continues to uphold standards of ethical conduct for lawyers and ensure access to justice in the state.