The story of Professor Jože Goričar (1907–1985) is a story of a lawyer who, through the world of law practice, delved into the broader field of social sci- ences, and in a crucial period of post-war construction followed an internal tendency that lead him to the profession of university teacher in the fledg- ling field of sociology. He laid the foundations of Slovenian sociological sci- ence and made a significant contribution to the rise of sociology as a scientific discipline through decades of academic work as an outstanding educationist and mentor to many young sociologists. Professor Goričar best embodies the pioneering generation of sociologists who, in the post-war period, paved the way for sociological science in our academic milieu and served as a source of inspiration to all who had just embarked on this journey. The article attempts to outline his life and work and highlight some of the significant achievements of Goričar’s pedagogical and scholarly contribution. It concludes by taking a closer look at his understanding of becoming and withering away of the law.

Keywords: Jože Goričar, sociology, law, Faculty of Law, 100th anniversary, withering away of the law.