Law studies are need because law pervades every citizen's life, current civics instruction is not producing law-abiding citizens, and many students feel anxious and alienated about the law. Law-related education benefits students by giving them basic information about the law, helping them to understand their rights and responsibilities and to develop their moral and ethical reasoning abilities. As a result of a 1977 congressional endorsement of law-related education, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in 1978-79 commissioned five national organizations to develop and coordinate a national law-related education program. This program has provided both curriculum materials and teacher training. Law-related education must encompass both elementary and secondary schooling. A national evaluation begun in 1979 found that these programs produce specific benefits in terms of student attitudes and behaviors and offer a way to reduce juvenile delinquency. One footnote is included.