Defense Lawyer Day, also known as Advocate Day, is observed in Ukraine every December 19. This professional holiday has been celebrated for over two decades to honor the important role defense lawyers play in protecting the rights and freedoms of Ukrainian residents. The history of the legal profession in Ukraine dates back to Kyivan Rus’, with modern advocacy emerging in the mid-19th century and evolving through various political changes. The holiday was officially established by President Leonid Kuchma in 2002 to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the Law on Defense Lawyers. While the government does not organize festive events, the National Bar Association and other professional organizations may hold celebrations within the legal community. As of March 2021, there were nearly 45,000 practicing defense lawyers in Ukraine, who can represent individuals and legal entities in civil and criminal cases.