Rule of Law Series: The Magna Carta, Constitutionalism, and the Rise of the Rule of Law

The Magna Carta, Constitutionalism, and the Rise of the Rule of Law 

The 1215 signing of the Magna Carta was a historic event.  It marked the beginning of the concept of limited, constitutional government and a respect for rule of law. This CLE describes the significance of this document, along with the subsequent events that have created the modern constitutional liberal state that is supposed to respect individual rights, rule of law, and limited government.

Presenter: 
Professor David Schultz, Professor, Department of Political Science and School of Law, Hamline University   

CLE Credits:
1.0 Standard CLE Credits | Event Code: TBD 

Registration Deadline:
April 23rd at 12:00 pm. To register after that time, email the program manager.

The Role of the Rule of Law CLE Series: Lawyering in a Constantly Evolving Legal Landscape 

This CLE series explores the concept of the rule of law—an ideal often invoked but rarely defined with precision. You may have heard that the rule of law means “the government of law, not men”; though it can be hard to understand how the rule of law exists separately from those who make it and those who live it.  

The ABA’s World Justice Project has proposed a working definition of the rule of law that includes four principles: 

• A system of self-government in which all persons, including the government, are accountable under the law 
• A system based on fair, publicized, broadly understood and stable laws 
• A fair, robust, and accessible legal process in which rights and responsibilities based in law are evenly enforced 
• Diverse, competent, and independent lawyers and judges 

This series will provide a presentation about the historical development of the rule of law, from the magna carta to its current role in democratic governance. Also included in the series will be sessions that will address current and emerging needs in the legal profession. Recognizing that many attorneys are active leaders in the broader community, these sessions will provide tangible takeaways to help you support the community around you.  

Rule of Law Series Dates

• June 24, 2025
  Protecting Nonprofits in Uncertain Times Through Pro Bono Service | On Demand
• June 4, 2025
  Ethical Responsibility in Challenging Times — and All Times | On Demand
• May 13, 2025
  Navigating Emerging Threats to Nonprofits: Legal Considerations for Attorneys and Board Members | On Demand
• April 24, 2025
  The Magna Carta, Constitutionalism, and the Rise of the Rule of Law | On Demand 
• April 21, 2025
  How Lawyers Can Prepare Their Corporate Clients for Immigration Site Visits | On Demand 

Remote instructions will be emailed to you the day prior to the event.

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment in which all members can participate fully. If you need reasonable accommodations to participate in this event, please notify the program manager with at least 72 hours notice prior to the meeting to allow sufficient time to make arrangements for accommodations.

Refunds will be processed for cancellation requests received in writing before noon on the registration deadline. Cancellation requests received after noon on the registration deadline are not eligible for refunds. You may send a colleague in your place if you are unable to join us and the registration deadline has passed.