MOST RECENT STATE BAR UPDATE RE THE CA BAR EXAM

On October 10, the California Supreme Court directed the State Bar regarding the following changes – summarized, below – to the CA BAR EXAM.  Should you need further clarification, please consult official channels.  In essence, the Bar will become a “CA Specific Test.”

• (These) changes would not occur for at least two years; ‘effectively, after 2026.

• Subject matter eliminated from the General Bar includes Corporations, Agency & Partnership.  Also, except as a possible cross-over subject, Remedies.

• Additional subject matter includes Administrative Law & Procedure, Employment/Family Law, Estate Planning & Probate.  Presumably, Family Law may be the currently required Community Property and Estate Planning & Probate may be the currently required Trusts/Wills.

• Other subject matter includes the currently required Criminal Law & Procedure, Evidence, Torts, Contracts, Civil Procedure, Con Law, Real Property.

• ‘7 Skills’ to also be tested.  In essence, these include:

Research & Investigation, Drafting/Writing, Issue-Spotting, Counsel & Advice, Litigation, Consultation & Client Relationships, Negotiation & Dispute Resolution.  It is presently unclear whether these to be tested by an essay or performance test – or other – format.

• The passing cut score to remain at 1,390.  Presumably weighted as presently determined:  50% Writing, 50% Multiple Choice – out of a possible 2,000 points.  Writing:  5 essays, 1 PT. Multiple Choice:  200 questions.  2-day exam; last TU/WED February and July.

• No reciprocity for out/state attorneys; they must take at least the 1-day Written Test.

• The earlier State Bar recommended ‘Portfolio Bar Exam’ is rejected (75% of CA licensed attorneys noted as opposed).

OTHER

• JULY 2024 BAR results due NOV 8

• May be an ‘experimental test’ offered for qualified applicants prior to the FEB BAR of 49 multiple choice questions.  With potential to boost FEB BAR score results.  Check to determine potential eligibility/dates/timing – other details; presumably at State Bar website.

DEVELOPING NEWS

As described from earlier updates regarding both the FYLSX and GENERAL BAR, the above-noted summaries now come from the CA SUPREME COURT – the governing body overseeing the STATE BAR.  As noted at the outset of this update, ‘suggest you additionally check all relevant websites for clarification – should you have questions.  Many changes have come to the CA BAR EXAM over the years – and any currently ambiguous or unresolved questions to presumably be resolved with time.

Whether you are a first-time or repeat applicant – an out/state attorney – a LOSP candidate – attended an ABA, CA-only, or Unaccredited law school – whatever your situation – please reach out should you have questions pertaining to your individual situation.

For at least the next 4 General Bar administrations – through 2026 – the current exam requirements seem here to stay.

As before, optimum test results are best leveraged by being fully prepared – often beginning your individual preparation earlier than your competition – and designed to fit your individual test-taking needs.

Whatever your course of action, all success in putting the exam behind you.