Mission and Overview
Improving Justice and Expanding Education for Democracy
The Florida Law Related Education Association, Inc. is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, law-focused civic education organization established in 1984 to improve justice and expand education for democracy through the development and implementation of quality civic and law related education programs for Florida youth. As a principal grantee under the Florida Bar Foundation’s Administration of Justice (AOJ) grants category, the Association has evolved into one of the most effective and respected law-related education organizations in the country.
What makes us unique in the landscape of civic education is our law-focused content, interactive strategies, and nonpartisan approach. We provide K-12 and adult education program models, academic competitions, professional development opportunities, and showcases for students.
The Florida Law Related Education Association, Inc. is a recipient of the National Improvements in Justice Award and the Isidore Starr Award for excellence in law related education. The Isidore Starr Award for Excellence in Law-Related Education was established in 1983 by the ABA Division for Public Education to honor the “father of law related education.” Dr. Isidore Starr, now 105 years of age, presented the award in person to Mrs. Pitts and called her “a human dynamo who has changed the landscape of law-related education.” Pitts most recently received the 2014 Sandra Day O’Connor Award for Advancements in Civic Education presented by the National Center for State Courts.
Florida students have made tremendous accomplishments in law-related education. Students have won the National We the People…the Citizen and the Constitution Mock Congressional Hearing competition on multiple occasions. Our students have also placed in the Top 10 in the National Mock Trial competition in past years and received outstanding recognition in Project Citizen entries nationally.
A reasoned and educated citizenry, actively participating in the civic and political life of the nation, with a genuine respect, knowledge, and appreciation for the rule of law, equal justice, civil liberties, and human rights for all.