Navigating the legal profession across multiple states can present some unique challenges. For attorneys already admitted to the bar in one jurisdiction, the prospect of taking another full bar exam may seem daunting. Fortunately, for those looking to practice in states like California, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia, there is a more efficient path forward: the attorney’s exam.
This specialized exam offers a streamlined route to admission by allowing qualified candidates to bypass the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) and focus solely on state-specific law. This guide will explain what the attorney’s exam entails, who is eligible, and how BARBRI provides a tailored, efficient study solution designed for your multi-jurisdiction success.
Understanding the Attorney’s Exam
An attorney's exam is a modified version of a state’s bar exam designed for lawyers who are already licensed and are in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction. Instead of sitting for the complete test with the MBE, you may be eligible to take the one-day, state-specific Day 1 portion of the bar exam. This part of the exam usually consists of essays and, in some cases, performance tests that assess knowledge of that particular state’s laws and legal procedures.
- In California, the abbreviated exam consists of essay questions and the Performance Test.
- In Florida, the exam tests subjects like state-specific constitutional law, trusts, and real property.
- In Georgia, you encounter the essay and Performance Test sections of the Georgia Bar Exam.
- In Virginia, a transferred MBE score allows you to take only the essay portion of the Virginia Bar Exam, testing a range of subjects from state civil procedure to domestic relations.
The primary benefit of this pathway is its efficiency. The exam recognizes your proven understanding of general legal principles, as demonstrated by your existing license, and centers the evaluation on your readiness to practice law within the new jurisdiction. This saves you considerable preparation time and allows you to concentrate on the material that truly matters for your transition.
Are You a Candidate for the Attorney’s Exam?
This specialized exam is intended for practicing attorneys seeking admission to the bar in California, Florida, Georgia, or Virginia through examination rather than reciprocity or admission on motion (if applicable). If you have a strong MBE score from a recent bar exam and are looking to become licensed in one of these jurisdictions, the attorney’s exam is your most direct route because it eliminates the need to study for and retake the MBE.
BARBRI: Your Streamlined Approach to Additional Bar Prep
When preparing for another bar exam, why spend valuable time studying subjects you won't be tested on? With BARBRI, you don’t have to. We understand your study needs as a practicing attorney are unique, and our program is built to adapt to them.
BARBRI offers powerful course customization to align with your specific exam requirements. When you enroll for a bar prep course for a state like California, Florida, Georgia, or Virginia, we can tailor your Personal Study Plan to focus exclusively on the state-specific written portion of the exam. We remove the unnecessary content from your schedule, ensuring every moment you invest in studying is directly relevant to the test you are taking.
You can navigate your course with confidence, knowing you are concentrating your energy on mastering the nuances of state-specific subjects. BARBRI does the work of personalizing your prep so you can focus on passing. Our targeted lectures, practice essays, and performance tests are engineered to build the skills and knowledge you need for the written section.
A Special Benefit for Our Alumni
Your journey with BARBRI doesn't end after your first bar exam. We are committed to supporting you throughout your entire legal career. If you used a BARBRI Bar Review course to pass the bar the first time, you are part of our community, and we value your loyalty.
Because of this, you may be eligible for our alumni discount on your attorney's exam preparation course. This is our way of saying thank you and continuing our partnership in your professional growth.
See if you qualify for a BARBRI Alumni Scholarship today.
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