Maine State Bar Association

09/04/2026

Twenty-seven words. More than two centuries of debate.

The Second Amendment is one of the shortest—and most debated—provisions in the Constitution.

In Episode 3 of our Constitution Day series, Executive Director Angela Armstrong takes us through the Second Amendment as we look beyond the debate itself to another fascinating question: How do we interpret constitutional language written more than 200 years ago?

Text. History. Legal tradition. Court decisions. And, sometimes, plenty of disagreement.

When you read the Second Amendment, what stands out to you?

Tomorrow, we're moving on to an amendment you probably haven't thought about lately: Why can't the government make you house soldiers?

09/02/2026

Did you use the First Amendment today?

Complained about the government? Read a news story? Practiced your religion—or chose not to?

You may have already exercised your First Amendment rights.

In Episode 2 of the Maine State Bar Association's Constitution Day series, Seth Perruzza explores the five freedoms protected by the First Amendment—and why protecting free speech sometimes means protecting speech we don't particularly like.

Of the five freedoms protected by the First Amendment—religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition—which one matters most to you?

Tomorrow: another amendment Americans definitely never disagree about—the Second Amendment.

This is the second video in the Maine State Bar Association's 17-pa...

09/01/2026

What does the Constitution actually mean in our everyday lives?

September 17 is Constitution Day, marking the anniversary of the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787.

This year, the Maine State Bar Association is counting down to Constitution Day with a new video series exploring the Constitution—one Amendment at a time.

Over the next 17 days, MSBA members will take on everything from free speech and due process to voting rights, presidential term limits, and even the amendment that once prohibited alcohol (and the amendment that changed its mind).

No law degree required.

Our goal is simple: to make the Constitution a little more understandable, a little more approachable, and maybe even a little fun.

We begin where the Constitution begins: “We the People.”

In Episode 1, MSBA President Rachel Okun explores the Preamble, why the Constitution exists, and why understanding our constitutional rights still matters today.

What does “We the People” mean to you? Follow along each day as we count down to Constitution Day on September 17.

08/21/2026

The Maine Lawyer Referral Service will be closed from Aug. 21 through Sept. 20, 2026.

During this time:

• LRS will not accept new LRS requests online or by phone.
• The LRS phone line and voicemail will not be monitored.
• Any messages left during this period will not be retained.

Please visit the LRS Legal Aid webpage for information about other organizations that may be able to assist you. https://www.mainebar.org/page/LRSLEGALAID

We appreciate your patience and understanding, and we look forward to assisting you when we reopen on Sept. 21.

08/20/2026

Consistency matters. With UPS®, you can count on reliable delivery and competitive member rates to help you stay efficient and prepared for what is next. Ship with confidence today: www.savewithups.com/msba |

08/18/2026

The New Lawyers Section got together for a summer social at Rising Tide Brewing in Portland on Aug. 6. Check out a few highlights from the evening!

08/06/2026

Solo and small firm attorneys face unique challenges every day — from managing a practice to keeping up with the changing legal landscape.

The MSBA's Solo and Small Firm Summit brings together attorneys for practical ideas, helpful resources, and opportunities to connect with colleagues who understand the realities of solo and small firm practice.

Join us and you'll take away strategies you can use in your practice right away.

📅 September 9
📍 Hilton Garden Inn, Freeport
Learn more and register: https://www.mainebar.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=2071024&group=

08/03/2026

One of the most popular activities at the ALPS Legal Malpractice Insurance and Law Firm Insurance's Bar Leaders Retreat is the whitewater rafting experience on the Clark Fork River. MSBA President-Elect Jim Haddow (sporting the white hat up front) and fellow adventurers embraced the thrill of the river and the camaraderie that makes this retreat such a memorable experience.

07/22/2026

Summer road trip season is in full swing. Wherever the season takes you, get there for less with exclusive member savings from Avis and Budget. Enjoy up to 35% off base rates and make the most of every mile. Book your summer getaway today.

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